Sir Richard Branson has spoken publicly about the profound sense of loss following the death of his beloved wife, Joan, last month. The Virgin Group founder, 75, described his feelings as 'uncomplicated grief', a term offered by his sister, Vanessa, which he says stems from a marriage filled with love and without regrets.
A Wonderful Life and Marriage Remembered
In an emotional post on Instagram this Tuesday, the business mogul reflected on his 36-year marriage to Joan, who was 80. He shared a photograph with Joan and their children, Holly, 43, and Sam, 40, and penned a moving caption. Branson explained that throughout their 'wonderful' life together, the couple 'never missed an opportunity to show love' and dedicated themselves to creating 'incredible' memories.
He wrote that his sister's insight made him reflect on the critical importance of staying on good terms with loved ones. 'Life is short,' he added, urging others to cherish their relationships.
Holly Branson's Heartfelt Tribute to Her Mother
Last week, the couple's daughter, Holly Branson, shared her own deeply personal tribute to her late mother. In a lengthy Instagram post accompanied by childhood photos, Holly grappled with expressing '44 years of unconditional love'. She described Joan as 'one in a billion, brilliant and kind', a mother who made her family feel they were her entire world.
Holly admitted that while one knows a parent's death is inevitable, nothing prepares you for the reality. She noted that the 'initial shock and pain' was gradually shifting into a 'deep gratitude' for having such an extraordinary mother. Holly vowed to 'channel' her mother's spirit every day to be the best wife, mother, and future grandparent she can be, sharing a touching anecdote about her daughter, Etta, recognising this change.
A Family United in Celebration and Gratitude
In his Tuesday update, Richard Branson thanked the public for the overwhelming outpouring of support following Joan's passing. He stated that the kind messages had brought his family great comfort during this difficult time.
'We’re the kind of family that now just want to celebrate Joan and the wonderful life she lived,' he wrote. 'I feel so fortunate to have met her all those years ago... She was just a joy to be around.' He extended his thoughts to others who have recently lost family members, saying Joan would have felt the same.
The post was met with support from friends and celebrities, including Naomi Campbell and Natalie Pinkham, who offered their condolences and praised the beautiful words and pictures. The family's focus remains on honouring the memory of a woman who was the heart of their world.
