Richard BransonS Wife, Joan, Dies at 79
Richard Branson is mourning teh loss of his wife, Joan Templeton Branson, who died on January 22, 2024, at age 79. The couple shared a 50-year partnership built on mutual support and a shared commitment to philanthropy, despite Branson’s global fame and estimated $3.2 billion net worth.
Joan Branson largely shunned the public eye throughout her four decades of marriage, preferring a private life while remaining a crucial force behind her husband’s entrepreneurial success. Branson frequently acknowledged her as the stabilizing influence behind ventures like Virgin Atlantic,Virgin Galactic,Virgin records,and the nonprofit Virgin Unite. “She is a very private person, who has always stood by me mentally, emotionally, and spiritually,” Branson wrote in a tribute for her 70th birthday. “As the saying goes,behind every man there’s a great woman.”
Born in 1945, Joan Branson worked in a variety of roles, including in a household, before meeting Richard Branson.Together, they raised three children. Their first daughter, Clare Sarah, tragically died just four days after being born prematurely. Their surviving children, Holly, 43, and Sam, 40, both currently hold positions within the Virgin association; holly serves as chief purpose and vision officer, and Sam acts as an informal advisor. Branson is also a grandfather to five: Etta, Artie, and Lola (Holly’s children), and Eva-Deia and Bluey (Sam’s).
Beyond their family life, Richard and Joan Branson were dedicated philanthropists, having signed the giving Pledge in 2012, committing to donate the majority of their wealth to charitable causes. In their joint pledge letter, they stated, “stuff really is not what brings happiness. Family,friends,good health,and the satisfaction that comes from making a positive difference are what really matters.”
