Richard Branson Shares Heartbreaking News: His Wife of 50 Years Has Passed Away
Sir Richard Branson has announced the loss of his beloved wife, Joan Templeman, marking the end of a remarkable 50-year partnership built on love, loyalty, and family.
On November 25, Branson shared the news with a deeply emotional message:
“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.”
A Love Story Spanning Decades
Richard and Joan married in 1989, years after first meeting at his Virgin Records studio. Together they welcomed three children:
Holly,
Sam, and Clare Sarah, who tragically passed away just four days after birth.
Their wedding took place on Necker Island — a tradition later continued by both Holly and Sam during their own ceremonies.
Who Was Joan Templeman?
View this post on Instagram
Despite being married to one of the world’s most famous entrepreneurs, Joan chose a quieter, more private life.
Born in Glasgow in 1944, she grew up in a working-class family and worked various jobs before meeting Branson. Those close to her often described her as:
warm and grounded
unwaveringly loyal
the steady center of the Branson family
Her humor, strength, and calm presence shaped both their home life and Branson’s journey through decades of business highs and lows.
Richard Branson: A Life of Innovation and Adventure
Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, built a global empire spanning music, airlines, telecommunications, health, and even space travel with Virgin Galactic.
Known for his risk-taking spirit and philanthropy, Branson has long credited Joan as the anchor who kept their family stable through every challenge and milestone.
A Legacy of Love
Joan Templeman’s passing marks a deeply painful moment for the Branson family, but her legacy of kindness, resilience, and devotion lives on through her husband, children, and grandchildren.
May she rest peacefully, surrounded by the love she helped build for more than half a century. ❤️
