Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis died on May 19, 1994, so she is not still alive today. She was First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963 as the wife of President John F. Kennedy, and later worked as a book editor in New York City. This article clarifies her current status, outlines her verified biographical timeline, and addresses common questions about her life and legacy. Because her death occurred decades ago, information about her is largely evergreen and not time-sensitive.
Current Status and Key Dates
Jacqueline Kennedy died on May 19, 1994, at age 64. Her death was widely reported at the time and is documented in reliable public records. She is not alive today. Understanding the facts around her death and historical role helps clarify ongoing public interest.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | May 19, 1994 | Obituary and news archives |
| Place of Death | New York City, New York, USA | Published reports |
| Age at Death | 64 years old | Biographical records |
| Cause of Death | Non-Hodgkin lymphoma | Medical reports and biographies |
| Burial | Arlington National Cemetery, beside President Kennedy | Official records |
Biographical Overview
Jacqueline Lee Bouvier was born on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York. She married Senator John F. Kennedy in 1953, becoming First Lady after his election in 1960. She is widely recognized for her grace, historic preservation advocacy, and the restoration of the White House. After her husband’s assassination in 1963, she married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis in 1968, and later married financier Maurice Tempelsman, though that marriage was never formally confirmed. She returned to publishing as a book editor at Viking Press and lived a largely private life in New York City until her death in 1994.
Life After the White House
Career and Publishing
Following her time as First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy worked as a book editor at Viking Press in New York City. She contributed to notable publications and cultivated a respected editorial reputation. Her career demonstrated significant professional expertise in literature and history.
Marriages and Private Life
After President Kennedy’s death, she married Aristotle Onassis in 1968, a union that attracted global attention. Following Onassis’s death in 1975, she maintained a low profile, later working in publishing and preserving historical artifacts. She married Maurice Tempelsman in a private ceremony, though the relationship remained largely out of public view.
Public Legacy and Influence
Jacqueline Kennedy is remembered for her cultural impact, White House restoration, and contributions to historic preservation. Her iconic fashion choices and televised tour of the White House remain notable moments in American history. Institutions such as the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum preserve her legacy through exhibitions and archival materials.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
- Is Jacqueline Kennedy alive today? No, she died on May 19, 1994.
- Where is she buried? She is buried at Arlington National Cemetery beside President John F. Kennedy.
- Did she remarry after JFK’s death? Yes, she married Aristotle Onassis in 1968 and later had a private relationship with Maurice Tempelsman.
- What is she best known for? She is best known as First Lady, for her style, White House restoration, and historic preservation work.
- Are there records of her death? Yes, her death is documented in obituaries, news archives, and official records.
Factual Summary Table
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 28, 1929 | Verified biographical date |
| Date of Death | May 19, 1994 | Widely reported and documented |
| Age at Death | 64 | Based on birth and death dates |
| Length of First Lady Tenure | 1961–1963 (2 years) | During John F. Kennedy’s presidency |
| Primary Career After White House | Book Editor at Viking Press | Documented professional role |
For readers seeking authoritative information, this status clarification draws on reputable news archives, published obituaries, and institutional records to provide a clear and enduring explanation of Jacqueline Kennedy’s current status and historical significance.