Richard Branson mourns wife Joan Templeman, 80: a life partnership remembered — plus Richard Branson’s age today

Richard Branson has shared that his wife, Joan Templeman—often colloquially called Joan Branson—has died at the age of 80. The entrepreneur described her as his steadfast partner through five decades, the quiet anchor behind his ventures, and the heart of their family. The announcement was made on November 25, 2025, with relatives gathering to grieve and celebrate her life.

Who was Joan Templeman, Richard Branson’s wife?

Known publicly as Richard Branson’s wife, Joan Templeman largely preferred privacy. Born in Glasgow, she met Branson in the late 1970s, when his early music ventures were turning into a broader business empire. Their relationship grew away from the spotlight’s noise and into a long, steady partnership defined by family and resilience.

The couple married in 1989 on Necker Island, a place that became synonymous with their home and hospitality. Together they raised two children—Holly and Sam—and later welcomed grandchildren who frequently appeared in family photos from the island. Friends and colleagues often credited Joan with creating the calm around which a fast-moving life could balance: a grounded presence who kept celebrations intimate, setbacks in perspective, and big decisions tethered to what mattered most.

Richard Branson age: how old is Richard Branson today?

If you landed here searching “how old is Richard Branson” or “Richard Branson age,” the answer is straightforward: he was born on July 18, 1950, which makes him 75 years old as of November 26, 2025. In recent years he has remained active across philanthropy, climate-focused initiatives, and mentorship while spending considerable time with family.

A 50-year love story built on home, family, and quiet routines

While the world often saw the headlines, those close to the family point to the everyday rituals: long walks, shared breakfasts, and open house tables that blended relatives, staff, and friends. On Necker Island, Joan nurtured a way of life that balanced adventure with sanctuary—children running between meals, guests cycling in and out, and sunset gatherings that ended in early nights more often than late parties.

They navigated fires, storms, business turbulence, and public scrutiny, returning repeatedly to the same constants: family first, health and safety, and community. When milestones arrived—births, anniversaries, recoveries—the tone was less spectacle than gratitude. That mix of warmth and understatement defined Joan’s public presence and private influence alike.

What we know now — and what’s next for the Branson family

• Age at passing: 80.

• Marriage length: More than 35 years married; roughly 50 years together.

• Family: Husband Richard; children Holly and Sam; grandchildren.

• Arrangements: Memorial plans have not been publicly detailed as of publication; the family has asked for privacy while they mourn.

If additional information is released—such as remembrance plans or charitable requests in Joan’s honor—expect it to emphasize community, family, and causes close to the couple’s long-running commitments.

Richard Branson, grief, and continuity

Public figures often grieve with the world watching, but the fundamentals don’t change: the next weeks will revolve around family first. In practical terms that means a lighter schedule, time on the island, and a focus on supporting children and grandchildren as they process the loss. It also means leaning into the networks Joan helped cultivate—friends who became family, colleagues who became confidants, and neighbors who became caregivers during difficult seasons.

For followers of Richard Branson, it’s reasonable to anticipate quieter communications in the short term and a later period of tributes that center Joan’s life rather than public achievements. The family’s past choices suggest any commemorations will reflect her character: thoughtful, loving, and unadorned.

Why Joan Templeman mattered beyond the headlines

The phrase “behind every success” can be cliché, yet those who met Joan came away with the same description: a person who made success livable. She curated spaces where big dreams were welcome but never allowed to eclipse small joys. She kept celebrations sincere, bad news workable, and good news grounded.

In an era that often measures impact by visibility, Joan embodied a different kind of influence—one measured in steadiness, presence, and the daily work of holding a family together. That legacy tends to last longer than headlines, and it’s likely how she would want to be remembered.

Quick answers to popular searches

• Richard Branson age: 75 (born July 18, 1950).

• Richard Branson wife: Joan Templeman (also referred to as Joan Branson), married in 1989, passed away at 80.

• Joan Branson / Joan Templeman: Same person—Joan preferred her maiden name publicly; many refer to her by her married name informally.

As the family shares more in due course, the enduring story will remain the same: a half-century partnership defined not by spectacle, but by love, loyalty, and a home that welcomed many.