Ethel Kennedy, Widow of Robert F. Kennedy Sr., Dies at 96
Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Robert F. Kennedy Sr., has passed away at the age of 96. Ethel died Thursday morning due to complications from a stroke she suffered last week, as confirmed by the Kennedy family.
Remembering Ethel Kennedy
Ethel, who was known for her devout Catholic faith, was hospitalized after suffering a stroke in her sleep. The Kennedy family shared that she was a “devout Catholic and daily communicant,” highlighting her deep spiritual connection.
A Life of Strength and Legacy
Ethel Kennedy was the mother of 11 children with Robert F. Kennedy, including notable figures like Kathleen Kennedy, Joe Kennedy, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. At the time of RFK’s assassination in 1968, Ethel was pregnant. She was also the sister-in-law of President John F. Kennedy, both of whom were tragically assassinated.
In 1969, a year after her husband’s death, Ethel founded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights nonprofit to continue RFK’s legacy of justice and equality.
Honored for a Lifetime of Dedication
In 2014, President Barack Obama awarded Ethel the Congressional Medal of Freedom, recognizing her lifetime of advocacy for human rights and social justice.
A Family’s Tribute
The Kennedy family released a heartfelt statement, expressing comfort in knowing that Ethel is now “reunited with the love of her life, our father, Robert F. Kennedy; her children David and Michael; her daughter-in-law Mary; her grandchildren Maeve and Saoirse; and her great-grandchildren Gideon and Josie.”
Ethel Kennedy is survived by her nine remaining children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren, leaving behind a lasting legacy of courage, love, and dedication.
