Joan Kennedy, Former Wife of Senator Ted Kennedy, Dies at 89

Joan Kennedy, the first wife of the late Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy and a longtime advocate for mental health and addiction awareness, died peacefully in her sleep at her Boston home early Wednesday morning. She was 89.

A family spokesperson confirmed her passing, noting that she was surrounded by love and care in her final days.

Born Virginia Joan Bennett, she was a classically trained pianist and a poised public figure who stood beside Ted Kennedy during some of the most turbulent and high-profile years in American politics. The couple married in 1958 and were together for 24 years before divorcing in 1983. They shared three children: Kara, Ted Jr., and Patrick.

Throughout her life, Joan faced significant personal challenges, including long and public battles with alcoholism and depression. At a time when few in the political spotlight openly discussed such issues, Joan’s struggles—and her courage in confronting them—made her a quiet pioneer in the conversation around addiction and mental health.

She later became a vocal advocate for greater awareness, treatment access, and compassion for those battling similar issues, lending her voice to a cause often overshadowed by stigma.

Despite personal hardships and the demands of public life, Joan Kennedy remained a symbol of resilience, grace, and advocacy. Her legacy includes not only her role in one of America’s most prominent political families but also her efforts to bring visibility to issues affecting millions.

She is survived by her sons, Ted Jr. and Patrick. Her daughter, Kara, passed away in 2011.