Richard Branson’s wife, Joan Branson, dies aged 80
The businessman said he “fell in love” with her at first sight. They married in 1989 on Branson’s 30-hectare private island, Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands, off London. Telegram reported
The couple had three children, Holly and Sam, aged 44 and 40 respectively, and Sarah Clare, who died shortly after her birth in 1979.
Branson with his wife Joan and young children Holly and Sam.
On her 80th birthday this year, Branson paid tribute to Joan, whom he described as a special person.
“Thank you for being there for me through it all, the ups, the downs and all the quiet, happy and peaceful moments in between,” she said.
“These are the moments I cherish the most with you, I love you more with each passing year.”
Telegram In a love letter he wrote to his wife in 2016, Branson said: “I experienced love at first sight when I met Joan, a blonde-haired, down-to-earth, Scottish beauty who made a cup of tea.
“I usually make up my mind about someone within 30 seconds of meeting them, and Joan instantly won my heart. She was like no woman I’d ever met.
“She was beautiful. She was smart. She was witty. She was down to earth. She was fun. And she had magic eyes.”
Celebrities also paid tribute to Joan Branson on social media.
“So heartbreaking. Rod and I are so sorry to hear this news and we send all our prayers to you and your loved ones,” wrote model and TV personality Penny Lancaster, who is married to Rod Stewart.
Television presenter Davina McCall said: “Oh… no… Richard, I’m so sorry. Thinking of you, Holly and Sam xx.”
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