Katharine “Kitty” Dukakis, the former first lady of Massachusetts who became an inspiration for others through her public battles with alcoholism and depression, has died from complications of dementia, according to news reports. She was 88.
She was surrounded by her family when she died Friday, according to a statement her son, John Dukakis, released to The Associated Press.
“She was loving, feisty and fun, and had a keen sensitivity to people from all walks of life,” the statement said. “She and our dad, Michael Dukakis, shared an enviable partnership for over 60 years and loved each other deeply.”
Her husband, Michael Dukakis, served as governor from 1975 to 1979 and from 1983 to 1991. He was the Democratic presidential candidate against Republican George H.W. Bush. in 1988.
Michael Dukakis’ response to a campaign debate question about his opposition to the death penalty, even if Kitty Dukakis were raped and murdered, was blamed as part of the reason for his loss. Dukakis said he was against the death penalty and that he didn’t see any evidence that it was a deterrent.
Kitty Dukakis became an advocate educating youths about the perils of drug and alcohol abuse.
She revealed during the presidential campaign that she had overcome an addiction to amphetamines, which she blamed in her 1990 book “Now You Know” on her mother. She entered a treatment program for alcoholism after the election.
Her 2006 book “Shock” described her treatment with electroconvulsive therapy in 2001 that she credited with relieving her depression.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend Kitty Dukakis, a woman whose dedication to public service, to uplifting others, and to human rights was fueled by her indomitable spirit,” Sen. Edward Markey, D-Mass., said in a statement. “Kitty was open about her battle with depression and addiction when few others were, and her grace and humility in the face of an intensely personal struggle inspired countless people to better understand these diseases and to extend assistance and understanding instead of recrimination and judgment.”
