Robert F. Kennedy Jr. paid tribute to his mother, Ethel Kennedy, who passed away peacefully at the age of 96. Ethel, the widow of Robert F. Kennedy, had 11 children with her late husband before his assassination in 1968. Their 11th child, Rory, was born after his death. Ethel was known for her energetic and eventful life, with a large family that included 34 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. Despite declining health in recent months, she maintained her sense of fun, humor, and spark. Ethel founded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization after her husband’s death in 1968.
Following her husband’s passing, Ethel Kennedy became known for her advocacy for Democrat politicians and political causes. She was presented with a Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2014. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. credited his mother with inventing “tough love” and being fiercely loyal to her children. While acknowledging that Ethel could be hard on her children when they did not meet her expectations, Kennedy expressed gratitude for her unwavering support in times of need. He described her as the driving force behind his virtues and generosity.
In his tribute to his late mother, RFK Jr. reflected on Ethel’s strong commitment to family and her enduring love for her late husband. He mentioned that despite his recent endorsement of former President Donald Trump in the 2024 election, Ethel and other family members may not have fully supported his decision. Ethel Kennedy suffered a stroke on October 3 and was hospitalized before her passing. Her family, including her nine surviving children and friends, were with her in Boston during her final moments. RFK Jr.’s heartfelt tribute garnered nearly 100,000 likes on social media, with many paying their respects to a remarkable woman who left a lasting impact on American politics and society.
Ethel Kennedy’s passing marks the end of an era for the Kennedy family, who have been prominent figures in American history for decades. Known for her tenacity, passion, and dedication to social justice causes, Ethel leaves behind a legacy of activism and philanthropy. Her contributions to the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization and numerous other charitable initiatives will be remembered by those whose lives she touched. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Ethel Kennedy was beloved by many for her sense of joy, humor, and joie de vivre. Her reunion with her late husband and other family members in heaven symbolizes a peaceful and well-deserved rest after a lifetime of service and devotion to her loved ones.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s poignant tribute to his mother, Ethel Kennedy, captures the essence of a remarkable woman whose spirit and influence will endure for generations to come. As the matriarch of a large and loving family, Ethel’s impact on her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren is immeasurable. Her commitment to social justice, advocacy for political causes, and unwavering support of her family have left an indelible mark on American society. Ethel’s passing may signal the end of an era, but her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the causes she championed. Whether it was through tough love, fierce loyalty, or unwavering generosity, Ethel Kennedy will be remembered as a compassionate, resilient, and inspiring figure in American history.
