Kitty Dukakis, the wife of former Massachusetts governor Michael Dukakis and the Democratic presidential nominee in 1988, has passed away at the age of 88. Her son, John Dukakis, confirmed that she died on Friday night at her home in Brookline, Massachusetts, surrounded by family.
Born on December 26, 1936, Kitty Dukakis led a life dedicated to advocacy and public service. She was known for her strong spirit and compassion, often sharing her own struggles to help others. In a heartfelt statement, John Dukakis described her as loving, feisty, and fun. He highlighted the deep bond she shared with her husband, who she supported throughout his political career, including his presidential run.
The cause of death was complications related to dementia, as reported by multiple sources. Throughout her life, Kitty Dukakis was a vocal advocate for various causes, including mental health awareness and support for the homeless and refugees. In her later years, she became an advocate for electroconvulsive therapy to treat depression and openly discussed her battles with addiction to diet pills and alcohol.
During her husband’s campaign, a significant moment occurred in a debate when Michael Dukakis was asked about the death penalty in a hypothetical situation involving Kitty. His calm response drew criticism and was seen as a pivotal moment in the campaign. Kitty later reflected on this moment, noting that her husband recognized it as a misstep.
Kitty Dukakis was also involved in significant projects, including the establishment of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. She was of Jewish descent, while her husband was Greek Orthodox, and they shared a commitment to social justice throughout their marriage.
She was the daughter of Ellis Dickson, a prominent musician with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Her life was marked by her dedication to making the world a better place, and she leaves behind a legacy of love and advocacy.