BOSTON, Mass. — Ethel Kennedy, the esteemed widow of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, passed away on Thursday at the age of 96. Known for her unwavering commitment to social justice and her family’s legacy, she raised their 11 children after his tragic assassination.
Addison Kennedy III expressed the family’s profound sorrow on social media, announcing her passing from complications following a stroke endured the previous week. “It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our amazing grandmother,” he stated.
The shared family statement highlighted Ethel’s lasting impact, stating, “Along with a significant legacy in social justice and human rights, our mother leaves behind nine children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom love her dearly.”
President Joe Biden referred to Ethel as “an American icon – a matriarch of optimism and moral courage,” acknowledging her six-decade-long dedication to advocating for human rights globally.
The Kennedy matriarch was mother to Kathleen, Joseph II, Robert Jr., David, Courtney, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Max, Douglas, and Rory. Recently, she had relished the company of many relatives before her health declined.
An heir to a wealthier lineage, Ethel married Robert F. Kennedy in 1950 and faced unimaginable loss early in her life. She was present when her husband was assassinated on June 5, 1968, following his victory in the California primary. This tragic event followed the assassination of her brother-in-law, President John F. Kennedy, less than five years earlier.
Her family experienced a series of tragedies: her parents perished in a plane crash, her brother died in another crash, her son David struggled with addiction before his death, and her granddaughter Saoirse Kennedy Hill passed away from an overdose. Family friend Philip Johnson famously remarked on the overwhelming grief the family endured.
Ethel’s fortitude was bolstered by her faith and dedication to her family. A devout Catholic, her family noted that she is now reunited with loved ones, including her late husband and children.
Following Robert’s death, Ethel established the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, advocating for various causes including gun control and human rights. Reflecting on her family tragedies, she often found it challenging to share her grief publicly.
Many of Ethel’s children have made names for themselves; Kathleen served as lieutenant governor of Maryland, and Courtney married a man wrongfully convicted in connection with an IRA bombing. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. also carved out a contentious public career, transitioning from an environmental lawyer to a polarizing figure in the anti-vaccine movement. Despite differences in views among family members, Ethel maintained her silence on his public actions.
In an earlier era, Ethel thrived in the social circles of political power, supporting John F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign and hosting prominent gatherings. She was also known for her competitive spirit in tennis and her dedication to family activities.
Bursting with a passion for justice, she was equally an advocate for the vulnerable and participated in numerous demonstrations and causes throughout her life, leaving a significant mark on social issues.
Ethel Kennedy was born Ethel Skakel on April 11, 1928, in a large Connecticut manor. Her life was intertwined with pivotal historical moments from the very beginning, beginning with her marriage to Robert and continuing through a lifetime of advocacy. After Robert’s death, she remained committed to their shared vision of social equality and justice.
From the early years watching the civil rights struggle to visiting iconic memorials, Ethel’s journey reflects a life dedicated to the pursuit of justice and the welfare of others. Her legacy will endure through the continued efforts of the organizations she founded and the family she cherished.
