Kyle Kennedy, a granddaughter of Robert F. and Ethel Kennedy, died at her home in Westwood, Massachusetts, on Sept. 21 at age 42. Her aunt Rory Kennedy shared a tribute calling her“a wonder”as a mother, daughter, sister, friend and educator, adding that Kyle was“funny and fierce and much beloved by all of us.”
Six years ago, a severe spinal cord injury left Kyle paralyzed. She channeled that experience into advocacy for people with disabilities, testifying at the Massachusetts State House on healthcare discrimination. Kyle also earned degrees from Georgetown, Pace and Harvard and taught with Teach For America before becoming a mother to sons Conor and Declan.
She leaves behind her two boys, ages 12 and 10, along with her mother Victoria Denise Gifford and a large extended family that has known more than its share of public grief. This time, the family’s loss is personal, and the tribute makes that clear.
How do you honor someone who turned their hardest moment into a mission for others? Share your thoughts with us.
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Local Lawton
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