Richard Branson has shared the heartbreaking news that his wife of 50 years, Joan Branson, has passed away. In an emotional statement, the Virgin founder called her his “best friend, rock, guiding light, and world,” saying she was a wonderful mother and grandmother.
The couple married in 1989 and had three children together. Branson often spoke lovingly of Joan, describing how he fell for her instantly and even bought Necker Island as a grand romantic gesture early in their relationship. Despite his fame, Joan preferred a private life and rarely appeared in public.
Tributes quickly poured in online, with many expressing sadness and sending condolences to Branson and his family.
