She stood beside her presidential candidate husband while carving out her own place in the public eye — now, Kitty Dukakis’s passing prompts a reflection of a life marked by advocacy, resilience, and enduring partnership.

Kitty Dukakis, the wife of former Massachusetts governor and Democratic presidential candidate Michael Dukakis, sadly died at 88. Her son, John Dukakis, confirmed she passed away Friday night due to complications from dementia, surrounded by family.

Throughout her life, Kitty was known for her candor about personal struggles, including her battles with depression and addiction. Her family said she shared her vulnerabilities to help others confront their own. Her family said in a statement:

“She was loving, feisty and fun, and had a keen sensitivity to people from all walks of life. She and our dad, Michael Dukakis, shared an enviable partnership for over 60 years and loved each other deeply.”

Kitty rose to prominence for her role as a supportive wife. Her husband was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Swarthmore College in 1955. He received his law degree from Harvard Law School in 1960 and served in the U.S. Army in Korea from 1955 to 1957.

Former governor Michael began his political career in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1963, where he served for eight consecutive years. Before and during that time, he also worked with the Boston law firm Hill and Barlow and moderated public television’s “The Advocates” from 1971 to 1973.

He was first inaugurated as Massachusetts’ 65th governor in 1975, and after a break in public office, returned to serve two more terms from 1983 to 1991. In 1988, he was the Democratic nominee for president.

Following his political career, he taught at several institutions, including Harvard University, the University of Hawaii, and Northeastern University. Kitty played a prominent role in her husband’s 1988 presidential campaign, earning praise for her tireless support and influence.

She was seen as a driving force in his decision to enter the race, campaigning actively and connecting with voters across the country. However, in addition to her role as Massachusetts’ first lady during her husband’s terms, she built a public identity of her own.

She worked as a modern dance instructor, a social worker, and an advocate for the arts and for vulnerable communities, including the homeless and stateless individuals.

In light of her passing, which follows other heartbreaking deaths in Massachusetts, U.S. Congressman Jimmy Gomez took to X to share in part, “Kitty was a loving mother, a fierce advocate for mental health, and a friend. I met her and Michael Dukakis in college, and I always appreciated their kindness, wisdom, and mentorship.”

Maura Healey, the Governor of Massachusetts, paid tribute to Kitty as well, writing, “Kitty Dukakis was a force for good in public life and behind the scenes. The causes she championed — recovery, gender equality, human rights, and more — made a real difference in people’s lives. Sending love to Governor Dukakis and their family.”

Massachusetts Democratic Party Chair Steve Kerrigan also issued a statement reflecting on Kitty’s legacy and advocacy, stating, “Kitty Dukakis used her role as first lady of the Commonwealth to champion refugees and the homeless, promote greater awareness of the Holocaust, and advocate for placing more women in leadership roles within state government.”

“Yet, it was her courage in publicly sharing her struggles with depression and substance use disorder that truly defined her strength. Her honesty and bravery helped break down stigma, inspiring countless others to seek support and begin their own journeys of recovery,” he added.

“Kitty Dukakis made our Commonwealth—and our world—a better place. We extend our deepest condolences to Governor Dukakis, John, Andrea, Kara, and their families,” the statement continued.