Sir Richard Branson, the renowned Virgin Group founder, has announced the devastating passing of his beloved wife, Lady Joan Branson, his partner and confidante for half a century.
A Final, Poignant Tribute
Just one day before sharing the tragic news, the billionaire entrepreneur offered a subtle and heartbreaking hint of his impending loss. On Monday, Sir Richard posted a nostalgic, 'blast from the past' photograph of himself with his wife, simply captioning the tender image: 'Love this photo of Joan.'
This poignant post was followed on Tuesday by the official announcement that has saddened friends, family, and admirers around the world. 'Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away,' Sir Richard wrote on his social media channels.
A Life of Partnership and Family
In his emotional statement, Branson paid a moving tribute to Joan's role as the heart of their family. He described her as 'the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for.' The couple shared two children together during their five-decade-long marriage.
For years, Lady Joan has been widely credited as the steadfast 'rock' and a constant 'source of wisdom' behind the global business magnate, providing unwavering support throughout his ambitious career. Last month, the Virgin tycoon underscored her immense importance in his life with another heartfelt post. He shared a photograph showing him kissing his wife's head, accompanied by the words that now carry even greater weight: 'Everyone needs a Joan in their life.'
A Legacy of Love and Support
The announcement marks the end of a profound personal and professional partnership that spanned the entire rise of the Virgin empire. Sir Richard's social media has often served as a window into their deep bond, making this public farewell a shared moment of grief for his many followers.
As the business world and public offer their condolences, the focus remains on the immense personal loss of a man who has lost his life partner, a woman who stood by his side for 50 remarkable years.
