Kitty Dukakis, the wife of former Massachusetts governor Michael Dukakis, passed away at the age of 88. Her son, John Dukakis, confirmed her death, stating that she lived a full life dedicated to making the world a better place. Kitty was known for her loving, feisty, and sensitive nature, and had a strong partnership with her husband for over 60 years. Her son thanked those who were touched by her throughout her life.
Her cause of death was reported as complications from dementia, and she passed away at her home in Brookline, Mass. Kitty Dukakis served as the first lady of Massachusetts during her husband’s three nonconsecutive terms and supported him during his unsuccessful presidential run against George H.W. Bush. She was involved in a pivotal moment during the campaign when Michael Dukakis was asked about the death penalty in a controversial question that was criticized for being emotionless.
In her later years, Kitty Dukakis became an advocate for electroconvulsive therapy for depression, and openly discussed her struggles with addiction to diet pills and alcohol. Despite being of Jewish background while her husband was Greek Orthodox, Kitty Dukakis was involved in various advocacy projects for causes such as the homeless, refugees, and AIDS. She was appointed to commissions by both Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush, and played a key role in the creation of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.
Kitty Dukakis had a complex relationship with her mother, as detailed in her book “Now You Know.” Her father was Ellis Dickson, the first violinist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Throughout her life, Kitty Dukakis continued to advocate for various causes and shared her vulnerabilities to help others facing similar struggles. She will be remembered for her dedication to making a positive impact on the world and her unwavering support for her husband during his political career.
