3 Current and former presidents attend memorial service for Robert Kennedy’s widow, -Her life was filled with heartbreak-

Posted on by

On October 16, a remembrance ceremony was held at the Cathedral of St. Matthew in Washington, D.C., honoring the late Ethel Kennedy, widow of former U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy. The event drew a notable number of political figures, including current and former Democratic presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Bill Clinton, all of whom delivered heartfelt speeches in her memory.

The ceremony, titled “A Celebration of the Life of Ethel Kennedy,” was a private affair attended by family members and a host of prominent politicians. Ethel Kennedy passed away on October 10 at the age of 96, and she was the oldest surviving member of the renowned Kennedy family. Throughout her life, she was a passionate advocate for human rights.

Former President Obama remarked on the profound tragedy and heartache that filled Ethel’s life, stating it was beyond what most people could bear. President Clinton described her as a source of enduring positive energy, while President Biden shared memories of Ethel’s support during his early political career and her encouragement when he faced challenges that made him consider stepping back from politics.

Other influential Democrats in attendance included California Governor Gavin Newsom, former Secretary of State and Presidential Climate Envoy John Kerry, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who referred to Ethel as a “national treasure.”

Martin Luther King Jr.’s son, Martin Luther King III, reflected on the close ties between their families. He recalled how, after his father’s assassination, Robert and Ethel Kennedy came to offer their condolences. He expressed admiration for Ethel’s extraordinary courage and dignity in the aftermath of her husband’s tragic assassination.

The ceremony celebrated Ethel’s life rather than mourning her passing. Several well-known performers, including Kenny Chesney, Sting, and Stevie Wonder, were invited to entertain during the event. Ethel’s grandchildren took turns sharing heartfelt tributes to their beloved matriarch.

Ethel Kennedy suffered a stroke on October 3 while asleep and was hospitalized, but sadly passed away a week later due to complications from the stroke. Her husband, Robert Kennedy, was assassinated while campaigning for the presidency in 1968, just five years after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Ethel gave birth to their 11th child six months after Robert’s death.

Following her husband’s tragic passing, she founded the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization, which has gained recognition for its work in promoting freedom of speech worldwide. Ethel raised their eleven children on her own, including her son Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recently ran for president. She also established the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights, advocating for gun control and human rights issues.