British Billionaire Richard Branson confirms the death of his wife, Joan Templeman, at age 80. He calls her his “rock” and “guiding light.” Learn more about their life together, Joan’s legacy, and how the world is reacting.
Who was Joan Branson?
Joan Templeman, widely known as Joan Branson, was born in Glasgow and later became a quiet but powerful presence behind one of Britain’s most famous businessmen. She met Richard Branson in the 1970s, years before his Virgin empire expanded into airlines, music, space and hospitality.
Their Journey Together
- Richard Branson first met Joan back in 1976. She worked at a small antique shop in London.
- He often wrote that he fell for her almost “the moment I saw her.”
- In 1989, they married on their private retreat, Necker Island, in the British Virgin Islands.
- Together, they had three children. Their daughter, Clare Sarah Branson, died just four days after birth in 1979. Their other children are Holly Branson and Sam Branson.
- Despite Richard’s public life, Joan largely stayed out of the spotlight. She focused on family, support and privacy.
Friends and family describe Joan as private, grounded and deeply loyal, someone who preferred home and family life to the spotlight that followed her husband. She raised their children and supported Richard Branson through major business highs and personal lows, including the loss of their premature daughter, Clare, who died at four days old in 1979.
Heartbreaking Loss for Richard Branson
British business magnate Richard Branson has announced the death of his wife Joan Templeman. She passed away at age 80.
In a post on social media, Branson wrote he felt “heartbroken.” He called Joan his “best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world.”
No cause of death has been disclosed.
Emotional tributes after Joan Branson’s death
In recent posts on Instagram and LinkedIn, Richard Branson described Joan Templeman as his best friend, rock, guiding light, and world.
He also called her the most wonderful mother and grandmother that their children and grandchildren could have wished for.
The cause of Joan Branson’s death has not been made public, and the family has asked for privacy as they grieve. News outlets across the UK, US and beyond have shared images of the couple, including photos from Necker Island and recent family events.
Her Legacy Behind the Fame
Joan played a quiet yet powerful role behind Richard’s global success. He often said he could not have done it all without her. Many remember her as grounded, warm, and wise. Their children, too — especially Sam — paid touching tributes. She also supported charitable causes, especially after the early loss of their daughter.
Richard Branson: Age and Life in Spotlight
- Richard Branson is 75 years old now.
- He founded global businesses including Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Galactic and Virgin Orbit.
- Joan stood by him through decades of growth, ups and downs. She shaped his path quietly but firmly.