Ethel Kennedy, a prominent human rights activist and the widow of former U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, passed away on Thursday at the age of 96. Her daughter, Kerry Kennedy, announced the news, stating that her mother succumbed to complications arising from a stroke she suffered the previous week.
Ethel Kennedy, a woman deeply committed to social justice and human rights, was hospitalized following a stroke that occurred on October 3rd while she was asleep. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kerry Kennedy shared the heartbreaking news with the world, writing, “It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our mother, Ethel Kennedy. Please keep our mother in your hearts and prayers.”
Beyond her tireless work in social justice, Ethel Kennedy leaves behind a legacy of love and a large, close-knit family. Kerry Kennedy further shared that her mother was survived by nine children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren, along with countless nieces and nephews who cherished her deeply. “She was a devout Catholic and a daily communicant, and we are comforted in knowing she is 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,” Kerry added.
Ethel Skakel Kennedy was born on April 11, 1928, in Chicago, the third child of George Skakel, a millionaire businessman. She received her education at the all-girls Greenwich Academy and graduated from the Convent of the Sacred Heart in the Bronx in 1945. Following that, she graduated from Manhattanville College in 1949.
Ethel’s journey with Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) began during a ski trip to Mont Tremblant Resort in December 1945. RFK, brother of her classmate Jean Kennedy, was a young attorney at the time. The two fell in love and were married in 1950. Ethel stood by her husband’s side throughout his political career, serving as a constant source of support as he rose to become a senator and attorney general.
The world watched in horror as Robert F. Kennedy, a Democratic presidential candidate, was fatally shot in a Los Angeles hotel kitchen in 1968. Ethel, a pillar of strength during this tragic time, continued to honor her husband’s legacy and fight for social justice. Months later, while still pregnant with their 11th child, Ethel founded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights foundation.
In 2014, Ethel Kennedy received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, from President Barack Obama in recognition of her remarkable contributions to human rights.
Ethel Kennedy’s life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to social justice and family. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
