Joan Bennett Kennedy, the former wife of the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 89 in her Boston home on Wednesday. Kennedy was a beloved figure in both the political and arts communities, known for her musical talents and advocacy for the arts.
What Happened
Joan Bennett Kennedy, who was married to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy for 24 years, passed away in her sleep at her home in Boston. She is survived by two children, Ted Kennedy Jr., and former Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy, as well as nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and a sister. Her daughter, Kara, died in 2011.
Kennedy became the youngest wife of the youngest U.S. senator ever elected at the time when she married Ted Kennedy in 1958. As she navigated the spotlight, she became a well-loved figure, often seen playing the piano at political rallies to engage the crowd. Despite their divorce in 1982, she continued to make significant contributions to both music and mental health advocacy.
Kennedy’s Contributions
After her divorce, Joan Bennett Kennedy moved to Boston, pursued a master’s degree in musical education, and became a music teacher. A classically trained musician, she performed globally with various orchestras and advocated for equitable access to arts education, especially for K-12 students. She also became an active member of local arts organizations, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Council for the Arts and Humanities.
In 1992, Kennedy wrote the best-selling book The Joy of Classical Music, aiming to make classical music accessible to all listeners. She was also one of the first prominent women in the U.S. to publicly discuss her struggles with alcoholism and depression, helping to destigmatize these issues.
Legacy and Tributes
Joan Bennett Kennedy’s legacy is marked by her contributions to music, mental health awareness, and her role as a mother and public figure. Her children, Ted and Patrick Kennedy, reflected on the profound influence she had on their lives.
Ted Kennedy Jr. shared, “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” to people with mental health conditions, while Boston Pops conductor laureate John Williams praised her dedication to the Boston Pops and her lasting impact on the arts community.
Closing Line:
Joan Bennett Kennedy’s contributions to the arts and mental health advocacy will continue to resonate for years to come. Her passing marks the loss of a beloved figure whose legacy of strength, kindness, and dedication will not be forgotten. Funeral arrangements have not been released at this time.
