Ethel Kennedy, a prominent figure in American politics and a dedicated human rights advocate, passed away at the age of 96 after suffering a stroke in her sleep. The news was confirmed by a family member to CBS News, and her grandson Joe Kennedy III shared the heartbreaking news on social media. Describing his grandmother as an “incredible woman” with a strong spirit, Joe Kennedy III reflected on her remarkable life and the impact she had on her family and the world.
Born Ethel Skakel in Chicago in 1928, she grew up in Greenwich, Connecticut, where her father built a successful coal business, providing the family with wealth and privilege. At just 17 years old, Ethel met Bobby Kennedy, who was dating her sister Patricia at the time. Their paths crossed, and a deep connection formed between them, leading to their marriage on June 17, 1950, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Greenwich.
Passionate about public service and dedicated to making a difference in the world, Ethel and Bobby campaigned tirelessly for Bobby’s brother, John F. Kennedy, during his 1960 presidential campaign. Bobby went on to serve as the Attorney General in his brother’s administration, further cementing the Kennedy family’s legacy in American politics.
Tragedy struck the family in 1968 when Bobby Kennedy was assassinated while celebrating his victory in California’s Democratic presidential primary. Ethel, who was pregnant at the time, gave birth to their 11th child, Rory, just six months after her husband’s death. Despite the immense grief and loss she experienced, Ethel found the strength to carry on her husband’s legacy by founding the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights foundation in October 1968.
The foundation, dedicated to promoting human rights and social justice, became Ethel’s life’s work, embodying her unwavering commitment to fighting for those who could not fight for themselves. Over the years, she supported numerous programs and initiatives that aimed to protect the rights of individuals around the world, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.
In a heartfelt tribute on her 96th birthday, her daughter Kerry praised Ethel’s dedication to justice and her tireless efforts in standing with human rights defenders globally. Kerry’s words captured the essence of Ethel’s legacy, highlighting her role as a champion for justice and a beacon of hope for those in need.
Throughout her life, Ethel Kennedy was a matriarch of the Kennedy political dynasty, embodying grace, strength, and resilience in the face of adversity. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and human rights set her apart as a trailblazer in her own right, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for equality and justice for all.
Ethel’s passing marks the end of an era for the Kennedy family, but her legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched and the causes she championed. As her family mourns her loss, they take solace in the knowledge that Ethel’s spirit and legacy will endure, inspiring others to carry on her work and fight for a better, more just world.
In her memory, let us honor Ethel Kennedy’s remarkable life and legacy by continuing to strive for justice, equality, and human rights for all. May her spirit guide us in our efforts to create a more compassionate and just society, where every individual is valued and respected. Ethel Kennedy may be gone, but her impact on the world will never be forgotten.
