Bling Empire, the hit Netflix show, is captivating audiences once again in 2022. Among its stars is Anna Shay, an heiress known for her candid advice and opulent lifestyle. Behind Anna’s glamour lies an extraordinary family history, particularly that of her late mother, Ai Oizumi Shay.
Ai Oizumi Shay: A Storied Heritage:
Ai Oizumi Shay, born on November 26, 1922, in Tokyo, Japan, was a woman of remarkable lineage. Her roots trace back to a Russian count and a Japanese grandmother, embodying a fusion of cultures. Among nine siblings, Ai-San Shay was born to Kiyoshi Oizumi and Miyo Fukahura, carrying with her a legacy of strength and resilience.
The Journey of a Visionary Businesswoman:
Ai Oizumi Shay’s life was marked by enterprise and innovation. Emerging from the shadows of World War II, she embarked on a journey as an exporter of pearls and silk flowers. Her ingenuity extended to patenting child-safe plastic scissors, a testament to her dedication to child well-being. Through her ventures, Ai-San Shay exemplified a spirit of entrepreneurship that resonates through generations.
The Heart of a Family:
Ai Oizumi Shay’s role as a mother was central to her identity. She embraced this role wholeheartedly, nurturing three children: Jun from her first marriage, and Anna and Allen, whose father was Edward Albert Shay. Her love and strength formed the bedrock of their family. The bonds she forged continue to shape their legacy.
The Shay Family’s Global Odyssey:
Ai Oizumi Shay’s story is intertwined with the saga of the Shay family’s international endeavors. Edward Shay, Anna’s father, established Pacific Architects and Engineers (PA&E), a testament to their enterprising spirit. Together, they navigated a journey that spanned continents, from Tokyo to Los Angeles. This global perspective became an intrinsic part of their identity.
A Matriarch’s Enduring Impact:
In 2015, at the age of 92, Ai Oizumi Shay bid farewell. Her legacy endures through the generations she touched. Described as a “pillar of strength,” she left an indelible mark as a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a cherished grandmother, and a revered matriarch. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her family, a testament to a life richly lived.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Strength and Vision
The story of Ai Oizumi Shay, the late mother of Bling Empire’s Anna Shay, is one of resilience, entrepreneurship, and unwavering love for family. Her journey, from Tokyo to the world stage, is a testament to the enduring impact of one woman’s indomitable spirit. Through her legacy, Ai Oizumi Shay continues to inspire, leaving an imprint that transcends time.
