The Kennedy family set aside political rifts and personal disagreements to come together and honor the life of their matriarch, Ethel Kennedy, at a solemn funeral in Cape Cod. Ethel, who was a mother to 11 children and a significant figure in human rights advocacy, passed away at the age of 96 following a stroke.
The Daily Mail reported that the private gathering took place at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Centerville, Massachusetts, where family members and close friends paid their last respects.
Ethel's passing brought a temporary pause to the public disputes surrounding the Kennedy family, especially regarding Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial political endorsements.
Despite the recent divide, the funeral was a unification of sorts, with Ethel's family focusing on celebrating her legacy and contributions.
Ethel drew her last breath surrounded by her family at a Boston hospital, succumbing to a stroke.
Known for her strength and charisma, Ethel was laid to rest after a touching service. The event saw her coffin adorned with white roses and lovingly carried by family, including grandsons Joseph Kennedy II and Joseph Kennedy III.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent figure in the ongoing family discord, chose not to partake in the coffin procession.
He was accompanied by his wife, Cheryl Hines, who spoke fondly of Ethel's enduring influence on her life.
The Kennedy family had been embroiled in public squabbles over RFK Jr.'s support of Donald Trump, which his siblings openly criticized.
Yet, the funeral occasion was marked by a truce, focusing on mourning and honoring their mother rather than political differences.
The solemn event was limited to family and close friends, followed by a private wake at the Hyannisport Club. Security measures were in place, with police and a private detail ensuring the sacredness of the moment.
Ethel Kennedy was well-remembered not just as a mother but also as the founder of the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights.
Her legacy, already significant within the peaceful pine groves of her resting place, extends far beyond, touching numerous lives through her advocacy and strength of character.
Among the reflections shared, Max Kennedy recalled, "My mother promised my sister Rory…that if she went to Heaven, she would ask God to send us a rainbow," capturing the essence of the comfort Ethel provided to her family.
As a return to a family tradition, siblings Max and Rory Kennedy set sail privately following the funeral. This act preserved a cherished family activity, reminding attendees of the ongoing bond they shared, despite any disagreements.
While Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s political affiliations remain a contentious issue within the family, his acknowledgement of Ethel's virtues was heartfelt.
He remarked that she "wrung joy from every moment" and attributed his strengths and virtues to her influence while expressing gratitude for her forgiving nature.
The funeral served as a gathering ground, not only for those seeking to remember Ethel’s legacy but also as an opportunity for RFK Jr. to reconnect with his family. As family tensions were briefly set aside, the ceremony provided a moment of unity amidst ongoing disputes.
Cheryl Hines, supporting RFK Jr., remarked on Ethel’s lasting impact on her life, highlighting how Ethel's guidance and wisdom would forever remain with her in cherished memories.
In addition to the familial rifts, rumors of RFK Jr.'s alleged affair added another layer of complexity to the family dynamics.
Yet, the funeral day was a reminder of the enduring power of family ties, cherished above all else during times of loss.