Joan Bennett Kennedy, Former Senator’s Wife, Passes Away at 89
Joan Bennett Kennedy, the former wife of U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy from Massachusetts, has died at the age of 89. She passed away at her home in Boston on March 15, 2024, as confirmed by the Massachusetts Democratic Party. Bennett Kennedy was married to Senator Kennedy for 24 years and was the mother of three children: Kara, Ted Jr., and Patrick Kennedy.
The couple wed in 1958, making Bennett Kennedy the youngest wife of the youngest U.S. senator in history. Her marriage to Edward Kennedy was notable not only for its political implications but also for her contributions to the arts. A classically trained pianist, she often performed at campaign events, using her musical talent to connect with audiences. Her ability to play the piano became a hallmark of her appearances alongside the Kennedy family.
Following their divorce in 1982, Bennett Kennedy relocated from Washington, D.C., to Boston, where she furthered her education by earning a master’s degree in music education from Lesley University. She remained active in the arts community, performing with various orchestras worldwide and contributing to local organizations such as the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Boston Council for the Arts and Humanities.
In 1992, she published the best-selling book, The Joy of Classical Music, which aimed to make classical music more accessible to a wider audience. She was also known for her openness regarding her personal battles with alcoholism and depression, using her experiences to inspire others.
Bennett Kennedy is survived by two of her children, Ted Kennedy Jr. and former U.S. Representative Patrick J. Kennedy, along with nine grandchildren, one great-grandchild, over thirty nieces and nephews, and her sister, Candace McMurrey, of Houston, Texas. Her daughter, Kara, passed away in 2011.
Expressing his admiration, Ted Kennedy Jr. stated, “I will always admire my mother for the way that she faced her challenges with grace, courage, humility, and honesty.” He emphasized her role as a loving mother and talented musician, as well as her influence on those dealing with mental health issues. Patrick Kennedy added, “She will be missed not just by the entire Kennedy family, but by the arts community in the City of Boston and the many people whose lives she touched.”
John Williams, the conductor laureate of the Boston Pops, praised Bennett Kennedy, recognizing her as “an accomplished pianist” with a deep understanding of classical music.
Details regarding the calling hours and funeral ceremony will be announced soon and will be available through the Carr Funeral Home in Charlestown. As the community mourns her passing, tributes continue to flow in for a woman who made significant contributions to both her family and the arts.
