The global business community and family friends are mourning today as Sir Richard Branson, the flamboyant Virgin Group founder, announced the passing of his beloved wife Joan. The British businessman shared the heartbreaking news on Wednesday morning through social media.
A Partnership Spanning Five Decades
Joan Branson, who had just celebrated her 80th birthday in July, was married to the billionaire entrepreneur for 35 years after tying the knot in 1989. The couple had been together for an impressive 50 years, creating both a family and business empire during their time together.
Richard Branson, aged 75, took to Instagram to share the devastating news with his followers and the world. In his emotional post, he described Joan as his "guiding light" and "best friend" throughout their half-century together.
Heartfelt Tributes From a Grieving Family
"Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away," the business magnate wrote in his social media tribute. He continued with touching words about her role within their family, stating "She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for."
The Virgin founder's emotional message concluded with the powerful declaration: "She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world. Love you forever, Joan."
The couple's son Sam also posted his own moving tribute to his mother, describing her as "the kindest, most loving, warm and abundantly generous woman to walk this Earth." He recalled how his mother had the remarkable ability to make "everyone in your presence feel like all was well with the world."
A Life of Love and Family
The Branson family's love story began on their private Necker Island in the Caribbean, where they exchanged vows in 1989. Together they raised three children - Holly and Sam, along with remembering their baby daughter Clare Sarah, who tragically passed away just four days after her birth.
The family has grown to include five grandchildren, whom Joan cherished in her later years. While Richard Branson did not disclose the cause of his wife's death, the focus remains on celebrating her life and the profound impact she had on those around her.
As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, the Branson family requests privacy during this difficult time while they remember the woman who stood as the foundation of their family for five decades.
