Who was Jackie Farry? Nirvana associate and Kurt Cobain's daughter's former nanny dies at 58

Jackie Farry, Nirvana associate and the first nanny of Kurt Cobain's daughter, Frances Bean Cobain, died at the age of 58. The industry veteran was fighting complications from a lung disease before ultimately passing away on January 12, 2025, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

Farry was an industry insider who was a tour manager for various singers and bands. She was closely associated with the rock band Nirvana and was the former nanny of the band's lead vocalist, Kurt Cobain's daughter.

Jackie Farry was diagnosed with cancer in 2003, and she fought against the disease for more than 20 years, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Her industry friends supported her by organizing organizing "F*ck Cancer" benefits. In addition, bands like The Breeders and Guided by Voices supported Jackie Farry through their performances.

Farry sold "F*ck Cancer" beanies and hats on her website to empower fellow cancer patients and survivors, as reported by the same outlet.

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Jackie Farry's life and career

Janet Billig Rich announces the death of longtime friend Jackie Farry. [Image via Instagram/@janetbillingrich]

On January 12, 2025, Jackie's longtime friend and artist manager, Janet Billig Rich, spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about her friend's personality and love for music.

"Jackie’s love for music was matched only by her sharp wit, humor, and magnetic personality. She was a beacon for friends and strangers alike, drawing people in with her infectious energy," she said.

Farry grew up in the controversial Synanon community, but she talked fondly of her memories of the community, as per The Hollywood Reporter. According to her friend, Janet Billig Rich:

"Jackie carried with her an incredible trove of memories and songs from those formative years."

Farry's career began as a receptionist at Homestead Records in the 1980s. With her passion for music, she quickly climbed the professional ladder. She worked in radio promotion at Atlantic Records from 1988 to 1989 and at Epic Records from 1991 to 1992.

She became a tour manager for multiple artists and bands, including The Lemonheads, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Elliott Smith, Quasi, Stereolab, and Quintron. She also hosted the MTV show Super Rock.

In The Hollywood Reporter article, Rich shared her love for Farry, saying:

"Jackie Farry’s legacy is one of love, laughter and an indomitable spirit. She will be deeply missed — her unforgettable stories, her humor and her impact on those who knew her will live on forever."

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According to the outlet, Jackie is survived by her partner, Aimee Swartz, her mother, Maddi Levine, and her stepmother, Terry Farry.