Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, announced that his wife of five decades, Joan Templeman, has died at the age of 80. Branson, 75, shared the news in an emotional message on social media, describing the depth of their life together and her role in their family.
Branson revealed that Joan had passed away on a Tuesday, but no cause of death has been made public. In his post, he emphasized both their 50-year partnership and her central place in the lives of their children and grandchildren.
“Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away. She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for. She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world. Love you forever, Joan x.”
Branson and Templeman shared a relationship that spanned half a century, during which she remained a constant presence behind the scenes while he built the Virgin Group empire. In previous tributes, he described how she stood by him through the highs, lows, and quiet moments of their life together.
In the days leading up to the announcement, Branson posted photos of Joan, including one of him kissing her on the head with the caption, “Everyone needs a Joan in their life.” He also shared another image with the simple line, “Love this photo of Joan,” underscoring his affection and admiration.
In July, when Joan turned 80, Branson publicly thanked her for being by his side “through the highs, the lows, and all those quiet, content, and peaceful moments in between,” marking her milestone birthday with a heartfelt tribute.
Over the years, Branson has written about how deeply he fell in love with Joan from the moment they met and how she preferred to avoid the spotlight while providing steady emotional support. He has often called her his rock, confidant, and guiding light, crediting her with being the steady force in his personal and professional life.
As Branson has previously expressed, behind his public success was a partner who chose to stay out of the public eye while always standing by him mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Author’s summary: Branson’s farewell to Joan Templeman portrays a 50-year partnership defined by quiet strength, deep affection, and her central role as the emotional core of their family.