Sir Richard Branson is mourning the loss of his wife of 50 years, Lady Joan Branson. On Tuesday, he announced her death, calling her his \u201cbest friend,\u201d \u201crock,\u201d and \u201cguiding light.\u201d<\/p>\n
Joan Templeman was known as Branson\u2019s steady, private anchor throughout his rise with the Virgin empire. Even last week, Branson shared a photo kissing her head, writing, \u201cEveryone needs a Joan in their life.\u201d<\/p>\n
The couple met in the 1970s when Joan worked in a small London shop. Branson said he fell for her instantly, often returning just to see her. They married in 1989 on Necker Island, which he bought early in their relationship \u201clike a fool in love.\u201d They had three children: Holly, Sam, and Clare Sarah, who died shortly after birth.<\/p>\n
Though married to one of the world\u2019s most famous entrepreneurs, Joan avoided the spotlight and rarely gave interviews. She celebrated her 80th birthday this summer, with Branson thanking her for decades of love and support.<\/p>\n
Now, Branson is grieving the woman he\u2019s long described as the foundation of his life, marking the end of a deeply devoted 50-year partnership.<\/p>\n