New Delhi, Aug. 6 -- Brad Pitt's mother, Jane Etta Pitt, has died at age 84, his niece Sydney confirmed in an emotional Instagram tribute. She described Jane, a former Missouri school counselor, as having "the biggest heart" and teaching kindness, faith, and finding joy in small things.

Jane, married to trucking executive William Pitt for 62 years, was the family's "glue," famously mediating disputes and attending red carpets with her Oscar-winning son.

Brad last publicly acknowledged her in June, blowing a kiss during a TV interview: "Love you, Mom".

Her death follows a January scam where fraudsters impersonated her to steal $800,000 from a woman convinced she was dating Brad.

Jane's passing intensifies Brad's heartbreak over his fra...