Joan Bennett Kennedy, Ex-Wife of Senator Ted Kennedy, Passes Away – Her Two Sons Pay Poignant Tributes

Known for her grace under pressure and lifelong dedication to family, music, and public service, Joan Bennett Kennedy leaves behind a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of the Kennedy dynasty.

Joan Bennett Kennedy, the former wife of the late U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy and mother to three of his children, has died at the age of 89. The Kennedy family matriarch passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home in Boston on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

The news was announced by Steve Kerrigan, chairman of the Massachusetts Democratic Party, on behalf of the Kennedy family.

Joan, a one-time socialite and accomplished musician, was married to Senator Ted Kennedy for 24 years. The couple shared three children: Kara, Ted Jr., and Patrick.

She is survived by her sons Ted Jr. and Patrick, along with nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild, more than 30 nieces and nephews, and a sister. Her daughter Kara tragically passed away in 2011.

Following news of her death, her sons paid moving tributes to their mother, remembering her strength, grace, and lasting impact.

Ted Jr. said in a statement, "I will always admire my mother for the way that she faced up to her challenges with grace, courage, humility, and honesty."

"She taught me how to be more truthful with myself and how careful listening is a more powerful communication skill than public speaking," he added.

While Ted Jr. kept his tribute formal, his brother Patrick gave a more personal glimpse into their family life. "Besides being a loving mother, talented musician, and instrumental partner to my father as he launched his successful political career, Mom was a powerful example to millions of people with mental health conditions," Patrick wrote.

"She will be missed not just by the entire Kennedy Family, but by the arts community in the City of Boston and the many people whose lives that she touched," he finished his statement.

Despite the pressures of political life and family expectations, Joan carved out her own identity as a classically trained pianist and advocate for the arts and mental health awareness. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Kennedy family, one of America's most iconic political dynasties.