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Joan Branson, Wife of Sir Richard Branson, Dies at 80

Their partnership spanned nearly five decades, beginning in 1976 with a life centered on Necker Island.

Overview

  • Richard Branson announced her death on Nov. 25 in a personal message on his social accounts and blog.
  • He called her "my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world," adding, "I will love you forever, Joan."
  • The couple were together for about 50 years and married for 36 after first meeting in 1976.
  • They had three children—Holly, Sam and Clare Sarah—with Clare Sarah dying shortly after a premature birth.
  • Branson bought Necker Island early in their relationship, later marrying there in 1989, with reports citing a $180,000 purchase price.