Richard Branson is mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Joan Templeman. The Virgin Group founder made a public statement about his loss on November 25, and tributes from fans and loved ones poured in. She was 80 at the time of her passing, and no cause of death was shared. Now, almost three weeks later, Branson is sharing an update.
Richard Branson Thanks Fans for Their Kindness
Branson and Templeman married in 1989, and in his initial statement, he shared his heartbreaking experience after losing his “best friend” and “partner for 50 years.” The couple is also parents to three children and five grandchildren. In his update this week, Branson reflected on the kindness he had been shown since announcing his wife’s passing and how the support had brought him and his family some solace.
Branson posted two throwback photos of himself and Templeman on Instagram. They look so happy and in love in the pictures. In the caption, he shared his thoughts. “Thank you to everyone who has shared such kind messages about Joan,” he wrote. “Our whole family are so touched by the outpouring of love. It brings us great comfort and it means so much to us all. We’re the kind of family that now just want to celebrate Joan and the wonderful life she lived. I feel so fortunate to have met her all those years ago. She was just a joy to be around – as so many of your messages reiterated.”
He thanked those who had been in contact and sent his own condolences to anyone who had lost a family member. Once again, the post’s comment section was flooded with loving, supportive messages.
Remembering Joan Templeman
Reactions to Branson’s update include one from musician Natalie Imbruglia, who wrote, “So much love to you and the family Richard… love all the happy, funny stories shared of Joan. So much Joy!!! She is one in a million.”
Supermodel Naomi Campbell also reacted to the news with white dove emojis, a praying hands icon, and a red heart.
Many other celebrities showed their support, and fan reactions include, “A role model couple for all of us,” “True love is eternal… that’s what u guys have,” and “I was so sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. She is feeling pure love and peace, and enveloping her loved in it. I hope you can all feel it.”
