Joan Bennett Kennedy, the former wife of the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, passed away peacefully in her Boston home on Wednesday at the age of 89. She died in her sleep. Joan was a beloved figure in both political and artistic circles, admired for her musical talent, grace, and advocacy for the arts.
What Happened
Joan Bennett Kennedy, who was married to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy for 24 years, died peacefully at her home surrounded by love and memories of her extraordinary life. She is survived by her two sons, Ted Kennedy Jr. and former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy, as well as nine grandchildren, a great-grandchild, and a sister. Her daughter, Kara Kennedy, passed away in 2011.
Joan married Ted Kennedy in 1958, becoming the wife of the youngest U.S. Senator at that time. Over the years, she became a familiar and admired figure at political events, often charming audiences by playing the piano at rallies. Despite her divorce from Ted Kennedy in 1982, she remained a respected public figure, continuing her work in music and mental health advocacy.
Joan Bennett Kennedy’s Contributions
After her divorce, Joan returned to Boston, where she earned a master’s degree in music education and pursued her lifelong passion for teaching. A classically trained pianist, she performed with several orchestras worldwide and dedicated herself to expanding access to music education, particularly for K–12 students.
She was an active supporter of local arts organizations, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Council for the Arts and Humanities. In 1992, she authored the best-selling book Enjoy Classical Music, written to make classical music more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Joan was also one of the first prominent American women to speak openly about her struggles with alcoholism and depression, helping to break down stigma and inspire others facing similar challenges. Her courage in sharing her personal journey helped shape public understanding of mental health.
Legacy and Tributes
Joan Bennett Kennedy’s legacy is defined by music, compassion, and resilience. Her family and admirers across the nation have remembered her as a woman of strength, elegance, and integrity.
Her son Ted Kennedy Jr. said, “I will always admire my mother for the way she faced her challenges with grace, courage, humility, and honesty.”
Patrick Kennedy described her as a “powerful example for anyone living with mental health conditions.”
Renowned Boston Pops conductor John Williams praised her lifelong commitment to the arts, calling her “a cherished supporter of Boston’s cultural heartbeat whose influence will endure for generations.”
Conclusion
Joan Bennett Kennedy’s passing marks the loss of a remarkable woman whose strength, kindness, and devotion left a lasting mark on American culture and public life. Her contributions to art, education, and mental health awareness will continue to inspire for years to come.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.