Ethel Kennedy, Widow Of Robert F. Kennedy & Human Rights Advocate, Dies At 96

Ethel Kennedy, widow of Senator Robert F. Kennedy and a prominent human rights advocate, has passed away at the age of 96, according to a family member who confirmed the news to CBS. She died following a stroke on October 3, 2024.

Her grandson, Joe Kennedy III, shared the news earlier this week on social media, calling his grandmother an “incredible” and “strong” woman who lived a “remarkably fulfilling life.”

In a statement released Thursday, Joe Kennedy III announced the passing of his grandmother, Ethel Kennedy, due to complications from a stroke. “It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our amazing grandmother, Ethel Kennedy,” he wrote. “She died this morning from complications related to a stroke suffered last week.” He went on to highlight her legacy, noting her lifetime of work in social justice and human rights. Ethel Kennedy is survived by nine children, 34 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, Ethel Kennedy continued to support her husband, Robert, as he advanced his political career. Robert was a leading candidate for the presidency when he was tragically assassinated by Sirhan Sirhan at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles in June 1968.

After her husband’s death, Ethel Kennedy dedicated herself to numerous causes, including co-chairing the Coalition of Gun Control. She remained actively involved with several human rights organizations throughout her life.

The Kennedy family endured several additional tragedies over the years, including the loss of two of Ethel Kennedy’s children—David, who died of a drug overdose in 1984, and Michael, who was killed in a skiing accident in 1997. In 1999, her daughter Rory’s wedding was overshadowed by tragedy when her nephew, John F. Kennedy Jr., and his wife, Carolyn, perished in a plane crash while traveling to the Cape Cod ceremony.

Ethel Kennedy is survived by nine of her children and a large extended family, many of whom have continued her legacy of public service. Her son, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., ran for president in 2024 but withdrew from the race in August to support former President Donald Trump.