The son who is affectionately recognized across the nation as Bobby Kennedy tied the knot with Ethel Skakel on June 17, 1950, in a ceremony that marked the beginning of a remarkable family legacy. Their union was not only a personal milestone but also a significant event in the context of American history, as Bobby was deeply involved in politics and public service. Over the years, their love blossomed, leading to the birth of a large and vibrant family that would shape their lives in profound ways.
Together, they welcomed a total of 11 children into the world, namely: Kathleen, Joseph II, Robert Jr., David, Courtney, Michael, Kerry, Christopher, Maxwell, Douglas, and Rory. Each child has contributed uniquely to the Kennedy legacy, with their diverse paths reflecting the family’s complex history and enduring influence in American society. The sheer size of their family emphasizes the values of unity and resilience that the Kennedys have embraced throughout their lives.
Tragically, their lives were forever altered when Ethel was pregnant with Rory at the time of Bobby’s untimely demise on June 6, 1968, shortly after achieving victory in the California Democratic primary. This moment marked a heartbreaking chapter in American politics, as Bobby Kennedy was not only a beloved figure but also a beacon of hope for many. His assassination left a profound impact on his family and the nation, reshaping the course of their lives and legacies.
The family faced additional heartache when David Kennedy lost his life to a drug overdose on April 25, 1984, at the young age of 28. His tragic passing highlighted the struggles that many young people face, even those from prominent families. Shortly thereafter, Michael Kennedy suffered a fatal accident on December 31, 1997, when he collided with a tree while skiing while tossing a football during a family trip in Aspen, Colorado. At 37 years old, he left behind three children with his wife, Victoria Gifford, showcasing the lasting impact of his presence within the family.
Despite the tragedies, Ethel Kennedy persevered. Even after the loss of her husband when their eldest child was just 16, she emerged as a strong matriarch, eventually becoming a grandmother to 34 grandchildren. This role brought her joy and purpose amidst the sorrow. However, the family faced more sorrow as two of her grandchildren passed away: Courtney and her husband Paul Hill‘s daughter, Saoirse Hill, tragically died at the age of 22 in 2019 due to an accidental drug overdose. Additionally, Kathleen and her husband David Townsend‘s daughter, Maeve Kennedy McKean, lost her life in a tragic canoeing accident in 2020 at the age of 40. These events serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges that have beset the Kennedy family throughout the years.
