Kitty Dukakis, the beloved wife of Michael Dukakis, the former governor of Massachusetts and 1988 Democratic presidential candidate, 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.

A Life Dedicated to Advocacy and Family

Born on December 26, 1936, Kitty Dukakis lived a remarkable life characterized by her passionate advocacy for various social causes. John Dukakis reflected on her legacy, stating, “She lived a full life fighting to make the world a better place and sharing her vulnerabilities to help others face theirs.” He described her as “loving, feisty, and fun,” emphasizing her deep bond with their father that spanned over six decades.

Legacy and Impact

Kitty Dukakis served as Massachusetts’ First Lady across her husband’s three terms and was a supportive presence during his 1988 presidential campaign. The campaign was marked by a pivotal moment during the first presidential debate, where a question about the death penalty regarding personal trauma prompted backlash due to Michael Dukakis’s unemotional response. Kitty later commented on this, stating that her husband admitted, “I really blew it,” and condemned the question as “outrageous.”

Beyond Politics: Advocacy and Personal Struggles

In her later years, Kitty became an advocate for electroconvulsive therapy in treating depression and was open about her past struggles with addiction to diet pills and alcohol, an experience she detailed in her writings. Her advocacy extended into various areas, including homelessness, refugee support, and AIDS awareness. Notably, she was appointed by both former Presidents Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush to commissions instrumental in establishing the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.

Family Background and Personal Life

Kitty Dukakis was the daughter of Ellis Dickson, the first violinist for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Jane (Goldberg) Dickson. In her first book, “Now You Know,” she explored her complex relationship with her mother, sharing profound insights into her family dynamics.