Sir Richard Branson is mourning the loss of his beloved partner of 50 years. On Tuesday, Nov. 25, Branson announced on social media that his wife Joan Templeman had died at age 80.

Branson wrote, “Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away. She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for. She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world. Love you forever, Joan x”

The couple married in 1989 and welcomed three children: Holly, 44, Sam, 30, and their first daughter, Clare Sarah, who tragically died at just 4 days old after being born three months premature, according to PEOPLE.

Eleven years after Branson purchased Necker Island, the pair chose the island as the place to exchange their vows — a tradition their children continued. Holly married there in December 2011, and Sam followed in March 2013.

Joan Templeman was a private and steady presence in the life of Sir Richard Branson, known for her warmth, loyalty, and quiet strength. Born in 1944 in Glasgow, Scotland, she grew up in a working-class family as one of several children. Before meeting Branson, she worked various jobs, including as a shop assistant and later at his Virgin Records studio, where their connection first began.

Despite Branson’s global fame and the large Virgin business empire, Templeman chose a life away from public attention. She rarely appeared at events, preferring to keep her family life grounded and private. Known for her humor, kindness, and practicality, she became the emotional anchor of the Branson household.

Sir Richard Branson is a British entrepreneur, philanthropist, and adventurer best known as the founder of the Virgin Group, a global empire spanning more than 400 companies. Born on July 18, 1950, in London, Branson struggled in school due to dyslexia but showed an early talent for business. At 16, he launched Student magazine, which led to his first major venture: Virgin Records. The label became one of the world’s most influential, signing artists like the Sex Pistols, Culture Club, and the Rolling Stones.

Branson later expanded the Virgin brand into airlines, telecommunications, hospitality, finance, health, and space travel. He founded Virgin Atlantic in 1984, known for its innovative service and bold marketing. In 2004, he launched Virgin Galactic, aiming to make commercial space tourism a reality.

Beyond business, Branson is recognized for his philanthropy and risk-taking spirit, often attempting world record adventures by balloon and boat. He created the nonprofit Virgin Unite and has been active in global humanitarian efforts.