Ethel Kennedy, Social Activist And Wife of Robert F. Kennedy, Dies At 96

Ethel Kennedy, the wife of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, who raised their 11 children after his assassination and remained committed to social causes and the family’s legacy for decades, passed away on Thursday at the age of 96, her family announced, Michael Casey and Steve LeBlanc reported for the Associated Press (AP).

The Kennedy matriarch was one of the last remaining members of a generation that included President John F. Kennedy. I Photo: Macmancape Wikimedia Commons

Kennedy had been hospitalized after suffering a stroke in her sleep on Oct. 3, according to her family.

“It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our amazing grandmother,” Joe Kennedy III posted on X. “She died this morning from complications related to a stroke suffered last week.”

“Along with a lifetime’s work in social justice and human rights, our mother leaves behind nine children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom love her dearly,” the statement read.

The Kennedy matriarch, whose children are Kathleen, Joseph II, Robert Jr., David, Courtney, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Max, Douglas, and Rory, was one of the last remaining members of a generation that included President John F. Kennedy. Her family noted that she had recently enjoyed time with many of her relatives before falling ill.