Joan Templeman, Wife of Richard Branson, Dies at Age 80

Sir Richard Branson is mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Joan Templeman. The entrepreneur announced her passing on November 25, 2025. She was 80 years old.

Branson described Joan as his “best friend, rock, guiding light, and world.” The couple had been together for more than 50 years. Their enduring partnership was a cornerstone of his very public life.

Five Decades of Quiet Strength and Support

Joan Templeman was a fiercely private person. She actively avoided media attention throughout her life. This was true even as Branson’s Virgin empire grew into a global brand.

According to Branson’s own past writings, she was his unwavering support. She stood by him mentally and spiritually through all his ventures. Her preference was always for family life over the spotlight.

The couple married in 1989 on his private Necker Island. They had two children together, Holly and Sam. They were also grandparents to four grandchildren.

Her death marks the end of an era for the Branson family. Friends and colleagues have shared heartfelt condolences. They remember her thoughtful and kind nature from visits to their island home.

A Legacy Defined by Family and Privacy

Joan Templeman’s influence was profound yet discreet. She provided the stable foundation for Branson’s adventurous spirit. Her role was that of a devoted partner and mother first.

In a rare move, she once participated in a film about Branson’s ballooning adventures. This was a notable exception to her rule of privacy. It highlighted her support for his passions.

The public tribute from Branson underscores a partnership built on deep mutual respect. Her legacy is one of quiet strength and enduring love. It is a reminder that not all impactful lives are lived publicly.

The passing of Joan Templeman leaves a quiet void in a famously loud world. Her story is a testament to the power of steadfast, private partnership. The family’s loss is deeply felt by all who knew her strength and kindness.

Thought you’d like to know

How long were Richard Branson and Joan Templeman married?

Richard Branson and Joan Templeman were married in 1989. They had been a couple for over 50 years prior to her passing in November 2025.

Did Joan Templeman have a public role in Virgin?

No, Joan Templeman was intensely private. She avoided media attention and did not hold a formal public role within the Virgin Group companies. Her focus was on family.

How did Richard Branson announce her passing?

Richard Branson announced Joan’s death via a post on his official Instagram account. He shared a moving tribute calling her his “rock” and “guiding light.”

What was the cause of Joan Templeman’s death?

The family has not publicly disclosed a specific cause of death. The announcement simply confirmed her passing at the age of 80.

How many children did they have?

Richard Branson and Joan Templeman had two children. Their daughter is Holly Branson and their son is Sam Branson.

Where did the couple get married?

The couple married on Necker Island, Branson’s private island in the British Virgin Islands. The wedding took place in 1989.