Is Joan Kennedy Still Alive? A Look at the Life of Virginia Joan Kennedy

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Written By Kanisha Laing

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Virginia Joan Kennedy, often referred to as Joan Kennedy, holds a place in American history as the former wife of U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy. Despite the trials and tribulations she has faced in both her public and personal life, her legacy remains intertwined with the Kennedy family’s remarkable story. But is Joan Kennedy still alive? This article takes a deep dive into her life, her challenges, and her current status.

Early Life of Joan Kennedy

Born Virginia Joan Bennett on September 2, 1936, Joan grew up in a Roman Catholic family in Bronxville, New York. Her father, Harry Wiggin Bennett Jr., was an advertising executive, and her mother, Virginia Joan Stead, was a homemaker. Raised in a tight-knit family, Joan was the elder of two daughters. Her younger sister, Candace, known as Candy, was born in 1938.

Joan’s education played a significant role in shaping her character. She attended Manhattanville College, a Sacred Heart college in Purchase, New York, which had familial ties to the Kennedys. Both her future mother-in-law, Rose Kennedy, and sisters-in-law, Jean Kennedy Smith and Ethel Skakel Kennedy, were also alumnae of the institution. Joan eventually went on to earn a Master’s degree in Education from Lesley University in 1982.

The Kennedy Marriage: A Life of Fame and Challenges

Joan first met Ted Kennedy in 1957 at a Manhattanville College event. They quickly became engaged, but Joan was apprehensive about marrying someone she barely knew. Despite her reservations, they wed on November 29, 1958. Their marriage thrust Joan into the limelight, marking the beginning of a life filled with both privilege and adversity.

The couple had three children: Kara Kennedy, born in 1960; Edward M. Kennedy Jr., born in 1961; and Patrick J. Kennedy, born in 1967. Two of their children faced serious health challenges—Ted Jr. battled bone cancer at the age of 12, resulting in the loss of part of his leg, and Kara was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2003. Tragically, Kara passed away in 2011 from a heart attack at the age of 51.

While Ted’s political career soared, Joan dealt with personal struggles. A notable incident that affected both their lives occurred in 1969 when Ted was involved in the infamous Chappaquiddick accident, resulting in the death of his passenger, Mary Jo Kopechne. Joan, who was pregnant and bedridden due to multiple miscarriages, still attended Kopechne’s funeral and stood by Ted’s side. Shortly after, she suffered another miscarriage.

The couple’s relationship deteriorated over time, and in 1978, they separated after two decades of marriage. Despite Joan’s public battle with alcoholism and efforts to stay sober, the marriage ended in divorce in 1983.

Life After Divorce: A Struggle with Sobriety and Health

After her divorce from Ted Kennedy, Joan continued to face challenges, particularly in dealing with alcoholism. She became candid about her struggles and appeared in McCall’s magazine, sharing her experiences of battling addiction. Although she sought treatment, Joan’s issues with alcohol persisted throughout her life, leading to several drunk-driving arrests and court-ordered rehabilitation.

Her health took a turn for the worse in 2005 when she suffered a concussion and a broken shoulder after being found lying on a street in Boston. That same year, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, leading to surgery. Joan’s declining health prompted her son, Ted Jr., to be appointed as her legal guardian, a role he continued to hold as she faced ongoing challenges.

Despite her difficulties, Joan found solace in music. An accomplished pianist, she taught classical music to children and in 1992 published a book titled The Joy of Classical Music: A Guide for You and Your Family. Throughout the ups and downs, her passion for music remained a consistent part of her life.

Joan Kennedy’s Life Today: Is She Still Alive?

As of the latest reports, Joan Kennedy is still alive, residing primarily in Boston, Massachusetts, and occasionally spending time at Cape Cod. While her public appearances have become increasingly rare, her enduring connection to the Kennedy family remains evident. Although she has not remarried since her divorce from Ted, Joan attended his funeral in 2009, demonstrating the lasting ties she maintained with the family.

Her later years have been marked by privacy and court-appointed guardianship to manage her estate. Despite her health challenges, Joan continues to be remembered as a significant figure in the Kennedy dynasty.

Conclusion

Joan Kennedy’s life has been filled with both privilege and hardship. While she is no longer a prominent public figure, her legacy remains tied to the iconic Kennedy family. Despite facing immense personal challenges, including health issues and a battle with alcoholism, Joan’s resilience and connection to her family continue to define her story. As of now, Joan Kennedy is still alive, a testament to her enduring spirit amidst a life filled with trials.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Joan Kennedy still alive today?

Yes, as of recent reports, Joan Kennedy is still alive. She currently resides in Boston, Massachusetts, and sometimes at Cape Cod.

2. What is Joan Kennedy known for?

Joan Kennedy is best known as the former wife of U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy. She was a prominent figure in American social circles and is also recognized for her work in education, classical music, and her advocacy for children’s charities.

3. Did Joan Kennedy remarry after her divorce from Ted Kennedy?

No, Joan Kennedy did not remarry after her divorce. Apart from a brief relationship after her split from Ted, she has not pursued any long-term relationships and has remained largely private about her personal life.

4. How many children did Joan Kennedy have?

Joan Kennedy had three children with Ted Kennedy: Kara Kennedy, Edward M. Kennedy Jr., and Patrick J. Kennedy. Sadly, Kara passed away in 2011 from a heart attack.

5. What health challenges did Joan Kennedy face?

Joan Kennedy has faced several health issues, including struggles with alcoholism, a concussion, broken shoulder, breast cancer, and kidney damage. Her son, Ted Jr., was appointed her legal guardian due to her declining health.

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