Ethel Kennedy was married to Robert F. Kennedy and became a well-known human rights activist later in life. They tied the knot in 1950 and had 11 children together. Robert built his political career as a U.S. attorney general and later as a senator. She managed their Virginia home and hosted parties.
After Robert’s tragic assassination in 1968. She took on the challenge of raising their children alone. She dedicated herself to continuing his legacy which included founding the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice & Human Rights. She passed away in October 2024 at the age of 96.
Quick Facts About Ethel Kennedy
| Full Name | Ethel Skakel Kennedy |
| Birth Date | April 11, 1928 |
| Marriage | Married Robert F. Kennedy in 1950 |
| Children | 11 children |
| Political Role | Human rights activist |
| Legacy | Founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice & Human Rights |
| Husband’s Assassination | 1968 |
| Death Date | Died in October 2024 at the age of 96 |
Early Life
Ethel Skakel was born on April 11, 1928, in Chicago to George and Ann Skakel. Her father started as a railroad clerk but eventually co-owned the successful Great Lakes Coal & Coke Co., established in 1919. This success made the Skakel family wealthy allowing them to move to Greenwich Connecticut where they settled in a large country manor.
Ethel grew up with her six siblings and was a competitive athlete. She attended Manhattanville College of the Sacred Heart where she became friends with Jean Kennedy who was a classmate. Their friendship quickly blossomed leading them to become roommates. Ethel did not realize at the time that this relationship would significantly influence her future.
Marriage to Robert F. Kennedy
In 1945, while attending school Ethel Skakel met Robert F. Kennedy, the brother of her friend Jean Kennedy. Initially, Bobby was interested in Ethel’s sister Pat but he and Ethel eventually began dating. Ethel supported Bobby by helping with his brother John F. Kennedy’s congressional campaign in 1946.
Ethel and Robert were married for 18 years after their wedding on June 17, 1950. Following her graduation in June 1949, their relationship deepened. They got engaged in February 1950 and moved to Charlottesville, Virginia after marrying.
They lived there until Bobby completed his last year at the University of Virginia Law School. Later, the family relocated to Washington, D.C., where Robert began his career in the Justice Department.
The couple welcomed their first child a daughter named Kathleen, on Independence Day, 1951. Soon after, they had three sons: Joseph II in September 1952, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in January 1954, and David in June 1955.
Life in Politics
As Robert’s political career advanced, Ethel balanced motherhood with his rising ambitions. They moved to Charlottesville Virginia and later to Washington, D.C. Their first child Kathleen was born on Independence Day 1951, followed by three sons: Joseph II, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and David.
Challenges and Triumphs
Ethel supported Robert throughout his campaigns. After her parents’ tragic deaths in a 1955 plane crash. She maintained her vibrant spirit focusing on her family and Robert’s political endeavors. They bought a mansion named Hickory Hill in McLean Virginia where they welcomed more children and hosted numerous gatherings.
Tragedy and Activism
Robert announced his presidential candidacy in 1968 with Ethel by his side. Ethel who had just given birth to their last child Rory focused on social justice and founded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization.
Legacy and Recognition
Ethel never remarried, despite media speculation about her friendships. She faced personal losses including the deaths of her sons David and Michael. In 2014, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama for her human rights work, and a documentary film about her life, Ethel, premiered at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival.
FAQs
Is Ethel Kennedy still alive?
She passed away on October 1, 2024, at the age of 96.
What is Ethel Kennedy’s net worth?
Ethel Kennedy’s estimated net worth is around $50 million.
Where is Ethel Kennedy buried?
She is buried at Arlington National Cemetery alongside her husband, Robert F. Kennedy.
How many grandchildren does Ethel Kennedy have?
Kennedy has 24 grandchildren from her 11 children.
How old is Ethel Kennedy?
Kennedy was born on April 11, 1928, and she lived to be 96 years old.
What happened to Ethel Kennedy’s children?
Ethel faced personal tragedies including the deaths of two sons, David and Michael.
How many children did Ethel Kennedy have?
She had a total of 11 children with Robert F. Kennedy.