Joan Bennett Kennedy, the first wife of the late Senator Ted Kennedy, passed away peacefully in her sleep early Tuesday morning, October 8, at her home in Boston, PEOPLE confirms. She was 89.
According to GoLocalProv, Joan Kennedy was a gifted pianist and educator with a master’s degree in education, remembered for her grace, intelligence, and quiet strength. Although she and Ted Kennedy divorced in 1983 after 22 years of marriage, she remained a respected and enduring figure in the Kennedy family’s story, known for her dignity through challenging times.
Joan Bennett Kennedy (September 2, 1936 – October 8, 2025) was an American socialite, musician, and author best known as the first wife of Senator Ted Kennedy. She was born in Manhattan, New York, and raised in suburban Bronxville, where she developed a lifelong love of music.
My aunt, Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith passed away in her sleep last night. She was a mighty woman and ambassador to Ireland who helped bring about the peace process. She was my mother’s college roommate and introduced my parents. She left us with many laughs. RIP, Aunt Jean. pic.twitter.com/BVBi0X7t0U
— Kerry Kennedy (@KerryKennedyRFK) June 18, 2020
Joan studied at Manhattanville College and earned a master’s degree in education. A talented classical pianist, she often performed publicly and used her music background to support arts and education programs.
In 1958, she married Ted Kennedy, the youngest brother of President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. The couple had three children: Kara, Edward Jr., and Patrick. Joan quickly became a prominent figure in Washington, D.C., admired for her elegance and poise. However, her marriage was marked by personal and public challenges, including Ted’s political pressures and infidelities, as well as her own struggles with alcoholism.
Despite the difficulties, Joan remained active in charity work and causes related to the arts, health, and children’s welfare. After she and Ted divorced in 1983, she continued to be known as a resilient and dignified member of the extended Kennedy family. She faced several health battles in later years but continued to receive care and support from her loved ones.
