If you’ve ever followed Ariana Grande closely, you’ve probably heard her mention “Nonna.” That’s not just a nickname — it’s what Ariana lovingly called her grandmother, Marjorie Grande. But Marjorie wasn’t just Ariana’s grandma. She was a strong, wise, stylish woman who made history in her 90s, became a fan favorite, and helped shape the Grande family into what it is today.
Born in 1925 and living all the way to 99 years old, Marjorie Grande had a long, rich life filled with family, love, and even music history. Her story isn’t just heartwarming — it’s inspiring. And yes, she really did become the oldest artist to ever appear on the Billboard Hot 100. Let’s dive into her life and find out why she meant so much to so many people.
Profile Summary: Marjorie Grande
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marjorie Marie D’Amico Grande |
| Nickname | “Nonna” |
| Date of Birth | October 12, 1925 |
| Date of Death | June 14, 2025 |
| Age at Passing | 99 years old |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Residence | Boca Raton, Florida |
| Height | 5’0″–5’2″ (estimated) |
| Weight | 100–115 lbs (estimated) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Italian-American |
| Religion | Roman Catholic |
| Occupation | Retired CEO |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Not publicly known; part of a high-earning family |
| Parents | John D’Amico (father), Minnie D’Amico (mother) |
| Siblings | Minnie D’Amico and Carolyn D’Amico |
| Spouse | Frank Anthony Grande (m. 1946–2014) |
| Children | Joan Grande, Judy Grande |
| Grandchildren | Ariana Grande, Frankie Grande, Lani Grande |
| Known For | Being Ariana Grande’s grandmother, Billboard chart record, iconic personality |
| Famous Achievement | Oldest artist ever to appear on Billboard Hot 100 (age 98) |
Marjorie Grande Early Life in New York City
Marjorie Grande was born Marjorie Marie D’Amico on October 12, 1925, in New York City. She grew up in a close-knit, traditional Italian-American family. Her parents were John and Minnie D’Amico, and she had two sisters named Carolyn and Minnie.
As a young girl, Marjorie lived in a neighborhood where everyone knew each other. One day, when she was just 11 years old, she met a boy named Frank Grande. He had just come home from surgery and was in a wheelchair. Even at that age, something about him stood out to her. She later said she knew he was “the one” when she saw him sitting on the stoop across the street.
Marjorie Grande Love Story That Lasted 68 Years
Marjorie and Frank didn’t start dating right away. It wasn’t until she was 14 that things turned romantic between them. Their story is one of those sweet, long-lasting love tales. After Frank served in the military, he returned and the two got married on September 21, 1946.
Their marriage would go on to last 68 years. Marjorie even joked about how she had to wear “low heels” because Frank was a little shorter than her. That little story always made people smile — it showed how playful and loving their relationship was. They stayed together until Frank passed away in 2014, at the age of 90.
Marjorie Being a Mother and a Grandmother
Marjorie and Frank had two daughters: Joan Grande and Judy Grande. Joan went on to become a powerful businesswoman and the CEO of Hose-McCann Communications, a marine technology company. Judy also remained close to the family throughout her life.
But Marjorie’s most well-known role came through her grandchildren — Ariana, Frankie, and Lani. She wasn’t just a grandmother who sent birthday cards. Marjorie was there for everything, She cheered for Ariana, helped raise Frankie, and supported Lani. She was always at the center of every family moment.
Marjorie Grande Moving to Florida and Close to Family
Later in life, Marjorie Grande moved to Boca Raton, Florida. That’s where Ariana spent a lot of time growing up, and it’s where the family continued to gather for birthdays, holidays, and even quick movie nights.
One sweet story comes from 2024. Ariana flew back to Boca just for one day to watch the movie Wicked with Nonna at the Cinemark 20 theater they used to visit every weekend. During the movie, when a sugar glider had a drum solo, Nonna shouted, “Oh I LOVE that!” — a moment Ariana remembered and shared with her fans. It showed how full of life Nonna always was, even at 98.
Her Role in Ariana Grande’s Career
You might think Ariana became a star all on her own, but Marjorie Grande played a big part in helping her granddaughter discover her talents. When Ariana was little, Nonna encouraged her to audition for a local stage production of Annie in Boca Raton. Ariana got the part — and that was the very beginning of her performing journey.
Later, as Ariana’s career took off with shows like Victorious and Sam & Cat, Marjorie stayed right by her side. In fact, the nickname “Nonna” became so special that Ariana gave the same name to her character’s grandma in Sam & Cat. That’s how close they were.
Marjorie Grande’s Public Events, Red Carpets, and Big Moments
Marjorie Grande wasn’t shy about showing up for Ariana. She walked red carpets, posed for photos, and stole the spotlight more than once. She attended the 2014 VMAs, where she and Ariana wore matching outfits and hugged on the carpet. Marjorie danced at the Teen Choice Awards, joined the family at the American Music Awards in 2015, and appeared at the TIME 100 Gala in 2016, where she even met stars like Melissa McCarthy.
One of her most unforgettable appearances came at the 2018 MTV VMAs, when she joined Ariana, Joan, and Lani onstage during the performance of “God Is A Woman.” The four women held hands and embraced. It was a powerful moment — a celebration of family, strength, and womanhood.
How Marjorie Grande Made Music History at 98
One of the most amazing things about Marjorie Grande is that she made music history — not when she was young, but when she was 98 years old.
In 2024, Ariana released her seventh album called Eternal Sunshine. The last track on the album was called “Ordinary Things”, and it featured Nonna’s voice at the end. It was a real recording of Marjorie giving loving advice about relationships. Ariana said she had been recording conversations with her grandmother for years to keep her words forever.
On this song, Marjorie said something simple but powerful:
“Never go to bed without kissing goodnight. And if you don’t feel comfortable doing that, you’re in the wrong place. Get out.”
That one moment made Marjorie Grande the oldest artist ever to appear on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song reached #55, and she got a special plaque and certificate to honor her record.
Marjorie Grande Voice in More Ariana Grande Songs
Even before she was officially featured on “Ordinary Things,” Marjorie Grande was already part of Ariana’s music.
In 2019, her voice was used in the song “Bloodline,” though she wasn’t credited. Ariana added a small voice clip of Nonna talking — just a little moment that made the song more personal. And in 2013, you can hear Marjorie again at the end of the song “Daydreamin’.” That one also included a story about how she met Frank.
Marjorie Grande Bond with Ariana and Frankie
Marjorie Grande had a very close bond with all her grandchildren. But her relationships with Ariana and Frankie were extra special.
She always supported Ariana’s music, shows, and personal life. She gave advice, listened to her songs, and even told her what she liked best. Her favorite Ariana track was “God Is A Woman”, and she also loved “Imagine,” “7 Rings,” and “In My Head.”
With Frankie, she shared a love of fun. She taught him how to play three-card poker and beat everyone. She called him her “little star.” When Frankie got married to Hale Leon, Nonna welcomed him like family. The family often posted cute pictures of all of them celebrating birthdays or holidays together.
Marjorie Grande Final Years in Florida
In her later years, Marjorie Grande lived a peaceful life in Boca Raton, Florida. That’s where Ariana and Frankie often visited her. They would bring balloons, cakes, and lots of love. Even as she got older, Nonna stayed sharp, funny, and full of joy.
One of the last special moments was when Ariana flew to Boca just for one day to watch her movie Wicked with Nonna. They went to the Cinemark 20 theater, the same one Ariana used to visit as a kid. During the film, Nonna got excited and yelled, “Oh I LOVE that!” during a funny scene. Ariana smiled and shared that story with fans.
Sadly, Marjorie Grande passed away on June 14, 2025, just a few months before turning 100. Her family announced her passing with love and grace. Ariana shared a black-and-white wedding photo of Marjorie and Frank with the caption “forever.” Frankie posted a long, loving message saying how much he missed her already.
Why Marjorie Grande’s Story Still Inspires People Today
Marjorie Grande wasn’t famous because she was on TV or in movies. She became known and loved because of the way she lived her life — with heart, honesty, and a great sense of humor.
She showed us that age doesn’t stop you from doing something great. Whether it was getting a tattoo at 93, dancing at the Teen Choice Awards, or becoming the oldest artist ever on the Billboard charts, she kept doing new things and enjoying life.
Final Thoughts
In the end, Marjorie Grande was more than just Ariana’s Nonna. Marjorie was the heart of the Grande family, She raised strong daughters. She helped shape successful grandchildren. She shared love, memories, advice, and laughter.
Even though she’s no longer here, her words, her voice, and her love will always live on — in Ariana’s music, in Frankie’s joy, and in the hearts of everyone who came to know her through those beautiful “ordinary things.”
FAQs
1. How old was Marjorie Grande when she passed away?
Marjorie Grande passed away at 99 years old in June 2025. She lived a long and full life surrounded by her family.
2. What made Marjorie Grande famous?
She became known worldwide as Ariana Grande’s grandmother, and in 2024 she made history as the oldest artist ever to appear on the Billboard Hot 100 at age 98.
3. Who were Marjorie Grande’s children and parents?
Her parents were John and Minnie D’Amico, and she had two daughters: Joan Grande (CEO of Hose-McCann Communications) and Judy Grande.
4. What was Marjorie Grande’s relationship with Ariana like?
She had a very close bond with Ariana. She supported her career, appeared at award shows, and even featured on Ariana’s songs like “Ordinary Things.”
5. Did Marjorie Grande have a career or net worth of her own?
Yes. Before retirement, Marjorie Grande worked as a CEO. Her personal net worth is not public, but she was part of a successful, high-earning family.
