Ethel Kennedy dead: Widow of Robert F. Kennedy dies aged 96

Ethel Kennedy , the widow of Robert F. Kennedy, has passed away at the age of 96 after suffering a stroke and being admitted to hospital on Wednesday.

A heartfelt message from Joe Kennedy was shared on X , where he announced: "It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our amazing grandmother, Ethel Kennedy. 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, along with numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom love her dearly."

• RFK issues passionate response amid rumors of affair with New York Magazine reporter

• Democrats need Irish Americans - this is how they're targeting them

Further remembering her life, the statement added: "She was a devout Catholic and a daily communicant, and we are comforted in knowing she is reunited with the love of her life, our father, Robert F. Kennedy; her children David and Michael; her daughter-in-law Mary; her grandchildren Maeve and Saoirse; and her great-grandchildren Gideon and Josie."

Kennedy, mother to Kathleen, Joseph II, Robert Jr. , David, Courtney, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Max, Douglas, and Rory, stood as one of the last icons of a storied era featuring President John F. Kennedy.

In recent times, she had cherished gatherings with numerous family members prior to her health turning, reports the Mirror US .

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .