Robert F. Kennedy’s Wife Ethel Dies—Shocking Cause of Death Exposed

Ethel Kennedy, a leading advocate for social justice, has passed away at 96, as her family shared through heartfelt social media posts.

Ethel, the widow of Robert F. Kennedy, died in Boston surrounded by family. Her death closes a life marked by activism, strength, and a deep love for her family.

Her grandson, Joe Kennedy III, announced on Twitter, “She died this morning from complications related to a stroke suffered last week.” Ethel is survived by nine children, 34 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.

Joe said his grandmother was a devout Catholic and found peace in believing she is now with her late husband Robert, her sons David and Michael, daughter-in-law Mary, and grandchildren Maeve and Saoirse, along with great-grandchildren Gideon and Josie.

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Her son, Robert Kennedy Jr., also shared his grief on social media, mentioning his mother’s lively personality, saying, “She never lost her fun, humor, and spark.”

Many tributes followed, celebrating Ethel’s extraordinary life. Her niece, Maria Shriver, said, “What a life she led. What a huge family she leaves behind. I’m glad I could laugh with her this summer and share memories.”

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Robert Kennedy Jr. shared that his mother, Ethel, often spoke with excitement about reuniting with loved ones who had passed, including her 16 Irish setters, all named “Rusty.”

Tributes continued to pour in, honoring Ethel’s life. Her niece, Maria Shriver, posted a touching message, saying, “What a life she led. What a huge family she created and leaves behind. I’m so glad I could laugh with her this summer and share memories.”

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Maria also praised Ethel’s character, calling her fearless, funny, smart, a great athlete, and deeply patriotic. She mentioned how deeply Ethel loved her husband, Robert, who Maria affectionately called “Uncle Bobby.”

Maria highlighted Ethel’s strong faith, adding, “During the tough times, and there were many, she leaned on her faith, just like my own mother.”

After Maria’s tribute, Ethel’s granddaughter, Michaela Kennedy Cuomo, posted a touching photo on her Instagram Story. The image showed her hand holding Ethel’s, which was adorned with a large diamond ring. Set to Taylor Swift’s song “Starlight,” the picture reflected their closeness during Ethel’s final moments.

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton also expressed his and Hillary’s condolences. He honored Ethel’s long and impactful life, calling her a “fierce fighter for justice and equality, a warm, wonderful woman, a great mother, and a dear friend.”

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Bill fondly remembered Ethel for her personal touch, noting that she sent the “best Valentine’s Day cards ever” to their family. He added, “Hillary and I loved her very much and will always cherish the friendship, kindness, and support she gave us over the years.”

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Ethel was born on April 11, 1928, to a wealthy family in Chicago. Her father, George Skakel, built a successful coal business, and the family eventually moved to a large estate in Greenwich, Connecticut, where Ethel grew up with her six siblings.

Ethel Kennedy attended several prestigious schools, starting with the all-girls Greenwich Academy in Connecticut, followed by the Convent of the Sacred Heart in the Bronx, and then Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart. It was at college where she met Jean Kennedy, and they became close friends and roommates. This friendship would eventually change her life forever.

In 1945, at the age of 17, Ethel met Jean’s brother, Robert Kennedy, during a skiing trip at Mount Tremblant Resort in Quebec, Canada. At that time, Robert was dating Ethel’s sister, Patricia Skakel. After that relationship ended, Ethel and Robert began dating, marking the start of their lifelong partnership.

Ethel’s involvement in public life went beyond her marriage to Robert. She became well-known for her strong support of John F. Kennedy’s presidential campaign and later, her husband’s successful run for a U.S. Senate seat representing New York.

Ethel Kennedy’s impact was vast, as seen in the numerous tributes and birthday wishes from family and friends. Throughout her 96 years, she was known not only for her strong humanitarian work but also for the deep love she had for those around her. Ethel will be remembered for her enduring legacy of fighting for social justice and her dedication to family. Her compassion, strength, and warm spirit touched countless lives, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.

All Three of Brad Pitt’s Daughters, Zahara, Vivienne, & Shiloh, Have Changed Their Names 

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s daughters, Zahara, Vivienne, and Shiloh, made headlines recently as it was revealed that they have adopted new names. This decision to change their names garnered significant reactions among fans and followers of the Hollywood star and his family.

Shiloh Nouvel, Vivienne Marcheline, Angelina Jolie, and Zahara Marley attend the World Premiere of Disney's “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on September 30, 2019. | Source: Getty Images

Zahara Seemingly Drops Last Name

Zahara Jolie-Pitt, the eldest daughter of Hollywood’s former power couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, has embarked on a new chapter in her life as an official member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha organization at Spelman College in Atlanta. This has also come with a notable drop of the name “Pitt.”

Brad Pitt and his daughter Zahara Jolie-Pitt spotted at a playground in New York City on August 26, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

In a captivating video shared by Essence, Zahara’s infectious energy and enthusiasm were on full display as she introduced herself during her sorority’s probate.

Dressed in a stylish black midi dress, gloves, and pearls, she proudly declared, “My name is Zahara Marley Jolie, coming all the way from the Golden State in the city that is full of angels, Los Angeles, California. I am this line’s number seven.”

Zahara Jolie-Pitt introduces herself on stage as Zahara Jolie at Spelman College, as seen in the video dated November 2023. | Source: Instagram/essence

Fans expressed their thoughts regarding the missing “Pitt” from her name during this significant moment. One commenter expressed disappointment, noting, “That’s a shame seeing as how life could have been different for her, and he played a part in changing her life for the better.” Another fan questioned the scrutiny aimed at Brad, asking, “Why are they giving Brad such a hard time?”

Brad Pitt and his daughter Zahara Jolie-Pitt visiting Central Park on August 28, 2007 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Another comment urged caution, stating, “I just hope this young lady is making decisions based on her own reality because to reject a parent is a BIG DEAL and should not be influenced by other people’s experiences or recollections.”

As she begins this new chapter in her life, it’s clear that Zahara’s name choice is eliciting thoughtful reflections on the complexities of family dynamics after her parents’ divorce.

Zahara Jolie-Pitt attends the "The Eternals" UK Premiere at BFI IMAX Waterloo in London, England, on October 27, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

Vivienne Changes Name Amid Parents’ Legal Feud — Report

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt is one of the twins of Angelina and Brad. When the twins were born in 2008, Brad was “very pleased to be at the birth of his children, very moved and very emotional,” said OB/GYN Dr. Michel Sussman.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt attends the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Now 15, Vivienne is exploring her artistic side with her mom’s strong support. According to People, the Playbill for the musical “The Outsiders” lists her as “Vivienne Jolie,” notably without “Pitt.” This name change marks a significant step in Vivienne’s evolving public identity.

Brad Pitt and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt on December 4, 2010, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

In the musical, Vivienne Jolie works as a production assistant, and her mother, Angelina, is the producer. She often joins her mom during the musical’s promotional tour.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie attend the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

In a recent appearance on “Today,” she was spotted watching Angelina from the crowd. Reflecting on her daughter’s role in the musical, Angelina shared that Vivienne’s enthusiasm for the project is driven by its focus on family.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt watches her mother, Angelina Jolie, being interviewed in the "Today" show for their musical "The Outsiders," dated May 2024. | Source: Instagram/todayshow

The veteran actress said, “And the same reason it responded to her, the same reason she wanted me next to her watching it, the same reason we all hugged when I came out here is because this is about family and it’s about community…”

Before the promotional tour, the mother-daughter pair were spotted attending the musical’s preview in New York City. This rare outing marked a significant public appearance for Vivienne, her first since 2021, drawing attention from fans and media alike.

Angelina Jolie and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt at the Walter Kerr Theatre for the Broadway show "Hadestown" in Times Square on August 19, 2023 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Vivienne’s reported name change and recent public appearances highlight the evolving dynamics of the Jolie-Pitt family, especially after a third child, Shiloh, chose to follow in the footsteps of Zahara and Vivienne.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt attends the Los Angeles premiere of MSNBC Films' "Paper & Glue: A JR Project" at Museum Of Tolerance on November 18, 2021, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt Turned 18 and Unveiled Her New Moniker

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, who turned 18 on May 27, has filed legal documents to drop her father Brad’s surname and use her mother, Angelina’s surname. She now wishes to be known simply as “Shiloh Jolie,” making this one of her first actions as an adult.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie attend the premiere of "Maleficent : Mistress of Evil" on October 7, 2019, in Rome, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

TMZ recently reported that Shiloh filed the paperwork on Memorial Day, which coincided with her birthday. The request for the name change has yet to be officially granted, but it is expected to be a matter of time before it becomes official.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt attends the "Eternals" UK Premiere at BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Shiloh’s decision follows a trend within the family, as her sisters, Vivienne and Zahara, have also reportedly omitted “Pitt” on separate occasions. These changes in the children’s names come amid court documents suggesting Angelina may have influenced their strained relationship with Brad.

Angelina Jolie, daughters Zahara and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt attend the gala screening of "The Eternals" at the BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Recent claims against the actress surfaced through a statement from Tony Webb, owner of SRS Global, a security company that provided personal protection for Angelina. Webb, employed under Jolie from 2000 to 2020, shared insights from his experience.

Angelina Jolie during the Service of Commemoration and Dedication at St Paul's Cathedral in London on June 28, 2018. | Source: Getty Images

“One of the two individuals, Ross Foster, specified that he intended to testify regardless of the NDA if he received a court subpoena,” Webb stated. He further revealed disturbing details about the potential testimony.

Angelina Jolie at the ICC in The Hague on May 19, 2009. | Source: Getty Images

“When Mr. Foster told me this, he also told me that if asked, he would testify about statements he overheard that Ms. Jolie made to the children, encouraging them to avoid spending time with Mr. Pitt during custody visits,” he claimed.

Maddox, Vivienne, Angelina Jolie, Zahara, Shiloh, and Knox Jolie Pitt during the world premiere of Marvel Studios' "Eternals" at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles, on October 18, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

This revelation sparked a fierce reaction across social media platforms, with many expressing dismay at Angelina. Others showed concern over the potential impact on the Jolie-Pitt children.

Angelina Jolie, Zahara Jolie Pitt, Brad Pitt, and Maddox Pitt walking at the seafront promenade in Mumbai on November 12, 2006. | Source: Getty Images

“The fact that she cannot see the harm this is doing to their kids is just shocking,” one person commented. This was echoed by another commenter who noted, “It’s probably why Shiloh is moving in with her father now… She’s realized her mother is vindictive and has been trying to alienate them from Brad for years.”

Shiloh, Zahara, Angelina Jolie, and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt at BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

One called Angelina’s alleged move “the worse possible thing a person can do… alienate their children from a parent.” Meanwhile, another declared “Shame on her.”

Angelina Jolie, Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt at Haneda Airport on June 21, 2014 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

The debate over Angelina’s actions led some to reflect on the cyclical nature of such behavior, attributing it to her tumultuous upbringing. “Her childhood was similar from what I read. Maybe she can’t break that perpetual cycle or doesn’t want to,” one claimed.

Brad Pitt, Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt on July 30, 2013 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

Besides Vivienne, Shiloh, and Zahara, Angelina is a mother to Knox, Pax, and Maddox. She shares all of them with Brad and despite the public’s critical perception, Angelina Jolie has continually strived to embody the role of a nurturing, attentive mother. This is, a commitment deeply rooted in the lessons taught by her own mom, Marcheline Bertrand.

Marcheline Bertrand at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles, California, on July 31, 2001. | Source: Getty Images

In a candid revelation made back in 2011, Angelina shared insights into her parenting approach, which is heavily influenced by the relationship she cherished with her mother. Angelina emphasized the importance of not just being a parent but also a friend to her children.

Angelina Jolie, Marcheline Bertrand, and Jacqueline Bisset at the premiere of her new film "Original Sin" in West Hollywood, on July 31, 2001. | Source: Getty Images

She highlighted the invaluable connection she experienced through open communication and shared activities with her mother. This foundation has guided her in fostering a similar bond with her children, ensuring that despite their diverse backgrounds, they feel united as a family.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, and Knox Jolie-Pitt during the Maleficent: Mistress of Evil European Premiere held at Imax Waterloo in London on October 9, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Remembering her mother’s gentle spirit and unwavering generosity, Angelina aspires to emulate these traits. Her aim is clear: to be as good a mother to her children as her mother was to her.

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