In Washington, President Joe Biden paid tribute to Ethel Kennedy during a heartfelt memorial service on Wednesday, referring to her as “a hero in her own right” who embodied character, integrity, and empathy. He noted how she supported him during one of the bleakest times in his life, highlighting her significant impact on both his personal journey and the broader community.
Biden was joined by former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, who also shared their memories of Ethel Kennedy’s compassion, humor, and unwavering determination amid hardship. “We’re a better nation and a better world because of Ethel Kennedy,” Biden remarked, celebrating her remarkable legacy.
As Biden spoke, he became emotional reminiscing about how the Kennedy family had been there for him decades ago, when he tragically lost his wife Neilia and their young daughter Naomi in a car accident. Their two sons, Beau and Hunter, who were toddlers at the time, also suffered severe injuries. “Along with Teddy (Kennedy), she got me through a time I didn’t want to stick around,” he recalled, expressing appreciation for how Ethel helped his family navigate through the pain with dignity and purpose.
Ethel Kennedy passed away at the age of 96 due to complications from a recent stroke. Following her husband Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination in 1968, she became the devoted matriarch to their 11 children while continuing her lifetime of advocacy.
She was present with Robert when he was assassinated at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, shortly after his victory in the California Democratic primary. This occurred less than five years after the assassination of her brother-in-law, President John F. Kennedy, in Dallas.
Obama reflected on her resilience, noting, “Her life was marked by more tragedy and heartbreak than most could bear.” He highlighted how Ethel could have chosen a path of resentment but instead chose to be an advocate for various causes such as juvenile justice, civil rights, and environmental protection. “Well into her 80s, she was still out there marching for something,” Obama stated, underscoring her relentless spirit.
The memorial took place at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle, a site of historical significance as it was also where John F. Kennedy’s funeral service was held. Members of the Kennedy family had previously gathered for Ethel’s private funeral earlier that week.
Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Ethel’s daughter, shared her memories of her mother’s fierce yet fun-loving nature, fondly recalling how they often pushed against traditional boundaries. “Stop signs were always mere suggestions,” she jokingly noted, reminiscing about how Ethel took her children to significant places, regardless of convention.
Clinton expressed gratitude for Ethel’s long life, describing her as “an amazing fireball of continuous energy.” During the service, he humorously recalled receiving a call from Ethel after Hillary Clinton was elected to the Senate to serve in the same position Robert had held. “Ethel called me and said if I need any instruction in how to be a Senate spouse from New York, she’d be happy to provide it free of charge,” he recounted.
Born into wealth, Ethel married Robert F. Kennedy in 1950 and faced tremendous loss by the time she turned 40. After her husband’s death, she established the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights and became a steadfast advocate for numerous causes, though she rarely spoke publicly about the day of her husband’s assassination.
The center remains active in its mission to advance human rights, offering awards to those who have made notable contributions in this area. Ethel was also involved with initiatives such as the Coalition of Gun Control, Special Olympics, and the Earth Conservation Corps.
The service featured heartfelt tributes from Ethel’s children, blessings from her grandchildren, and musical performances by renowned artists like Kenny Chesney, Sting, and Stevie Wonder. Martin Luther King III, son of the legendary civil rights leader, highlighted the strength of Ethel and emphasized the crucial role that supportive partners play alongside great leaders, concluding with reflections on the profound strength both families had during the civil rights movement.