Ethel Kennedy, a human rights campaigner and the widow of Democratic icon Robert F. Kennedy, died on Thursday at the age of 96 due to complications from a stroke earlier in the week. Her daughter, Kerry Kennedy, issued a statement announcing her mother’s death, characterizing her as a longtime advocate for social justice and human rights. Ethel left behind nine children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.
Born Ethel Skakel, she married Robert F. Kennedy in 1950, becoming part of one of America’s most famous political families. Robert served as U.S. attorney general under his brother, President John F. Kennedy, and later became a senator from New York.
Ethel experienced terrible tragedy, including the assassinations of her brother-in-law in 1963 and her husband in 1968.
Despite these losses, Ethel remained a pillar of strength. Her family endured further heartbreak, losing sons David and Michael, and granddaughter Saoirse to tragic accidents or drug overdoses.
In 1968, Ethel established the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Center to continue her husband’s work. She was also involved in a number of charity initiatives, including efforts to clean up Washington’s Anacostia River and revitalize New York’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood.
President Joe Biden called her an “American icon,” praising her resilience and lifelong commitment to family and country. In 2014, President Obama awarded Ethel Kennedy the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her enduring faith and contributions to social justice.
Throughout her life, Ethel Kennedy turned grief into purpose, inspiring countless people with her grace and generosity.