Amber Phillips
Ethel Kennedy’s life was a remarkable tapestry woven with resilience, tragedy, and advocacy. As the widow of Senator Robert F. Kennedy and a passionate activist, she left an indelible mark on American society. On October 16, 2024, President Joe Biden delivered a heartfelt eulogy at her memorial service, celebrating her legacy and impact on civil rights and human dignity.
Tribute from President Biden
In his eulogy, President Biden honored Ethel Kennedy as an “American icon” and a “matriarch of optimism and moral courage.” He shared that she had a “spine of steel and a heart of gold” that served as an inspiration for millions, including himself and First Lady Jill Biden.
- Ethel Kennedy passed away at the age of 96.
- She suffered a stroke earlier in October, leading to complications that ultimately claimed her life.
- Biden highlighted her devotion to family and country, illustrating how those values shaped her work and life.
A Life Devoted to Service
Ethel Kennedy was not only a mother of eleven, but she also played a vital role in various social causes throughout her life. Following the assassination of her husband in 1968, she committed herself to advocacy, founding the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Foundation.
Former President Barack Obama, who also spoke at the service, described her as a “spitfire” with a passion for justice. He added, “As serious as Ethel was about righting wrongs, she never seemed to take herself too seriously.” Her tenacity in addressing issues like juvenile justice reform and civil rights showcased her dedication to those less fortunate.
- Nine children, 34 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren survive her, showcasing the strong family bonds she nurtured.
- Her grandson, Joe Kennedy III, remarked on her remarkably fulfilling life and the strength she exhibited as a matriarch.
The Legacy of Loss and Strength
Despite her numerous achievements, Ethel faced significant personal tragedies throughout her life. She endured the heart-wrenching loss of both parents in a plane crash in 1955, the overdose death of her son David at 28, and the skiing accident that took her son Michael’s life at 39. These losses were compounded by the assassinations of her husband and her brother-in-law, President John F. Kennedy.
Through it all, Ethel displayed resilience and a commitment to her family’s legacy. She raised her children to honor their father’s memory while also empowering them to engage in social justice endeavors. Her son, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., had recently suspended his own presidential campaign to endorse former President Donald Trump, continuing the family’s complex political legacy.
- Ethel’s life brought together tragedy and triumph, shaping her into a figure of strength for her family and community.
A Celebration of Ethel Kennedy
The memorial service in Washington, D.C., drew family members and friends, highlighting her enduring impact on those around her. Mourners remembered Ethel not just for her activism, but for her warmth and humor. President Biden referred to her as a friend, reflecting the deep personal connections she fostered throughout her life.
As people gathered to pay their respects, they also celebrated her contributions to society. Ethel Kennedy became a symbol of hope and resilience, demonstrating how an individual can wield influence in advocating for change, even in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
Ethel Kennedy’s life was a testament to the power of resilience, family, and social justice. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Kennedy family and the broader community she influenced throughout her decades of advocacy. As President Biden aptly noted, her legacy will continue to inspire future generations to fight for what is right. Ethel Kennedy leaves behind not just a large family, but a profound commitment to human rights that resonates beyond her lifetime
