This article excerpt from Maureen Callahan's new book "Ask Not: The Kennedys and The Women They Destroyed" chronicles the final painful years of Mary Richardson Kennedy, former wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., leading up to her suicide in 2012. It details her struggles with severe depression and anger following her separation from Bobby Jr., contrasting her public image as a Kennedy with her private despair. The piece highlights Bobby Jr.'s alleged increasing isolation and financial cutoff of Mary, her therapist's assessment that she was "angry and depressed" rather than mentally ill, and the controversial actions Bobby Jr. took both in his public statements and regarding her burial after her death.
Summary of "The Last Days of Mary Kennedy: 'She Is Angry and Depressed, but She Is Not Ill.'"
Book Introduction: Maureen Callahan's book "Ask Not: The Kennedys and The Women They Destroyed" (publishing July 2, 2024) examines the intricate history of the Kennedy family, including various scandals.
Mary Richardson Kennedy's Background: Mary, a talented architect, married Robert F. "Bobby" Kennedy Jr. in 1994, had four children, and separated in 2010. She died by suicide on May 16, 2012, while still legally married to Bobby Jr.
Deteriorating State (Spring 2011): Despite her privileged life, Mary was profoundly depressed, struggling to get out of bed and appearing unkempt. She felt she was "on the verge of losing everything" and that others couldn't bear her life.
Bobby Jr.'s Absence and Neglect: Bobby Jr. was frequently absent, even without job-related travel, and would often take the children on adventures while excluding Mary. She felt "persona non grata" despite raising their children and hosting family events.
Therapist's Assessment: Therapist Sheenah Hankin, specializing in high-profile clients, refused Bobby Jr.'s request to diagnose Mary as mentally ill, stating, "Your wife isnβt mentally ill... She is angry and depressed, but she is not ill."
Fear of the Kennedys: Mary expressed fear that "They could destroy me" in reference to the Kennedy family.
Bobby Jr.'s "Ruthless Moves" (April 2012): As Cheryl Hines emerged as his new partner, Bobby Jr. allegedly cut off Mary's court-approved $20,000 monthly credit card, left her checking account at zero, and banned her from the Kennedy compound, leading to her being publicly broke.
Mary's Suicide: On May 16, 2012, Mary went to her barn, stacked crates, and used a ladder to hang herself. She was found with her fingers stuck in the rope, indicating an attempt to save herself.
Public Narrative vs. Reality: Two days after her death, Bobby Jr. and his sister Kerry Kennedy told the New York Times that Mary was a "disconsolate alcoholic," with Bobby claiming she blamed him for making her a stay-at-home mom. He portrayed himself as a victim of a "mentally disturbed alcoholic wife."
Post-Funeral Controversy: One week after an "elegant" funeral, Bobby Jr., without informing Mary's siblings or obtaining legal permits, had her coffin exhumed and moved 700 feet away from the Kennedy family plot. He cited overcrowding as the reason, leaving her grave unmarked and isolated.