Kyle Francis Kennedy, granddaughter of Robert F. Kennedy and Ethel Kennedy, died on October 20 at the age of 42. She was the daughter of Michael Kennedy, who died in a skiing accident in Aspen in 1997.
Born on July 6, 1984, in Washington, D.C., Kyle Kennedy spent much of her upbringing in Cohasset, Massachusetts. She pursued a career in education, teaching in New York City public schools through the Teach for America program. She held a bachelor’s degree in history from Georgetown University, a master of science in early education from Pace University, and a master of education in education policy and management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Kyle Kennedy is survived by her sons, Conor and Declan, her former husband Liam Kerr, her mother Victoria Gifford Kennedy, her brother Michael, her sister Rory, and several nieces and nephews. She was the niece of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The cause of death is pending.
A Life of Teaching and Advocacy
An avid athlete and long-distance runner, Kyle Kennedy ran the 2019 Boston Marathon, completing the race in challenging weather conditions. In 2020, she suffered a severe spinal cord injury that resulted in long-term paralysis and disability.
Following her injury, Kennedy became an advocate for people living with disabilities. Her advocacy work included testifying at the Massachusetts state house in a hearing on discrimination in disabled health care. According to her obituary, she maintained her determination through medical challenges while working to be the best possible mother to her sons.
