Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis died on May 19, 1994, at age 64. Her death followed a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and occurred at her home in New York City. This verified status clarification explains her age at death, the timeline of her final months, and the publicly confirmed medical facts. It also distinguishes between private grief and public records to provide a concise, sourced overview focused on what is documented rather than speculation.
Key facts at a glance
For quick reference, the table below summarizes core, source-backed details about Jackie Kennedy Onassis’s death and its context.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis | Biographical records |
| Date of death | May 19, 1994 | Obituary archives |
| Age at death | 64 years | Obituary archives |
| Place of death | Manhattan, New York City, USA | Reported obituaries |
| Cause of death | Non-Hodgkin lymphoma | Medical reports and obituaries |
| Burial | Arlington National Cemetery, next to JFK | Official records |
How old was Jackie Kennedy when she died?
She was 64 years old at the time of her death. This is consistently reported in obituaries, biographies, and official records. She was born July 28, 1929, and died May 19, 1994, making her 64 years, 9 months, and 21 days old. Survived by her children Caroline and John Jr., she was mourned both as a private individual and as a historic public figure.
Circumstances of her final months
In the months before her death, reports indicated she was undergoing treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. She chose to remain at home in Manhattan during her final days, surrounded by family. The official cause of death listed on her death certificate was non-Hodgkin lymphoma, consistent with medical statements released at the time.
Where and when she was found
She was discovered at her apartment in the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Emergency services were called, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. The date and time were recorded as May 19, 1994, in official reports and news accounts. No public conflicting timelines have been documented by authoritative sources.
Immediate public reaction and legacy
News of her death prompted widespread tributes, with media revisiting her role as First Lady, her preservation of White House history, and her later work as a book editor. Memorial services were held in New York and Washington, D.C., and she was reinterred at Arlington National Cemetery beside President John F. Kennedy. Her legacy endures in preservation efforts, cultural influence, and historical scholarship.
Clarifying rumors and misconceptions
Over time, various unverified claims have circulated about her final health decisions and private circumstances. Authoritative biographies and contemporaneous news reports align on the core facts: a cancer diagnosis, treatment, and a peaceful passing at home. Disputed anecdotes are not supported by primary records or reputable news sourcing.