Sir Richard Branson’s wife Joan dies aged 80
Sir Richard Branson is mourning the loss of his wife, Lady Joan Branson, who recently passed away. The Virgin Group founder shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional social media post.
He described Joan as his best friend, rock, and guiding light during their five-decade partnership. Branson also highlighted her role as a wonderful mother and grandmother to their family.
The couple’s love story began in the 1970s when they met in a West London shop. Branson recalled it as love at first sight, frequently visiting just to see Joan while she worked.
They married in 1989 on Necker Island, a property Branson purchased early in their relationship as a romantic gesture. Together they raised three children, though they tragically lost one daughter shortly after her birth.
Throughout Branson’s very public career, Joan maintained her privacy, deliberately avoiding the spotlight. She rarely gave interviews, with her first not occurring until 2016 for a documentary about Branson.
The couple recently celebrated Joan’s 80th birthday this summer, where Branson shared a loving tribute. He expressed gratitude for her steady presence through all of life’s moments.
Her passing marks the end of a remarkable fifty-year partnership. Branson has lost the woman he consistently described as the foundation of his life and his greatest source of support.
