Richard Branson shares heartfelt tribute to late wife Joan Templeman as "shining star" of his life.
The British billionaire expressed his devastation at the passing of his wife and partner, Joan Templeman, aged 80. The couple married in 1989 on Necker Island, owned by Branson, and had three children and five grandchildren together. In a pair of Instagram posts, Branson wrote that Templeman was "the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for" and described her as his "best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world".
Branson recalled their 50-year relationship as filled with laughter, kindness, and a deep love that shaped their family. He also shared fond memories of Templeman's "radiant smile", her joyfulness, and nurturing instincts. Branson praised the couple's partnership, saying they were "very lucky" to have had such a successful and fulfilling relationship.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but Branson confirmed he was by Templeman's side when she passed away "quickly and painlessly". He wrote that her "light is not gone", but has taken on a new shape, guiding him forward and helping their family navigate the future.
Throughout his posts, Branson spoke of the significant impact Templeman had on his life and career. The couple met in 1976 at Virgin Records' live-in recording studio, and Branson wrote that he fell for her "almost from the moment I saw her". He credited Templeman with being a steady source of wisdom and playing a key role in some of his better life decisions.
Branson's tribute to Templeman is a poignant reminder of their enduring love and partnership. As one of Britain's most successful entrepreneurs, Branson has built a business empire, but it was his relationship with Joan that brought him the greatest joy and fulfillment.
The British billionaire expressed his devastation at the passing of his wife and partner, Joan Templeman, aged 80. The couple married in 1989 on Necker Island, owned by Branson, and had three children and five grandchildren together. In a pair of Instagram posts, Branson wrote that Templeman was "the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for" and described her as his "best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world".
Branson recalled their 50-year relationship as filled with laughter, kindness, and a deep love that shaped their family. He also shared fond memories of Templeman's "radiant smile", her joyfulness, and nurturing instincts. Branson praised the couple's partnership, saying they were "very lucky" to have had such a successful and fulfilling relationship.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but Branson confirmed he was by Templeman's side when she passed away "quickly and painlessly". He wrote that her "light is not gone", but has taken on a new shape, guiding him forward and helping their family navigate the future.
Throughout his posts, Branson spoke of the significant impact Templeman had on his life and career. The couple met in 1976 at Virgin Records' live-in recording studio, and Branson wrote that he fell for her "almost from the moment I saw her". He credited Templeman with being a steady source of wisdom and playing a key role in some of his better life decisions.
Branson's tribute to Templeman is a poignant reminder of their enduring love and partnership. As one of Britain's most successful entrepreneurs, Branson has built a business empire, but it was his relationship with Joan that brought him the greatest joy and fulfillment.
Richard Branson sharing those sweet tributes to his late wife Joan Templeman is really touching 
. I can see why he says she's been his "best friend" - they've had an incredible 50-year journey together 
. It's lovely that he highlights their family life, too - it's clear she was the glue that held everything together 
. As a couple, they seem to have balanced love with wisdom and kindness... what more could you ask for? 
. It's amazing how he's still spreading love and positivity after such a tough time 
. I mean, 50 years together is no joke! That's like, a century in dating terms 
. Anyway, it's clear that Joan Templeman was more than just his partner, she was his rock 
. Richard's posts are giving me all the feels, and I'm sure their family is gonna be okay with her spirit still guiding them 
.
. also, 50 yrs is pretty impressive for any marriage 
Her radiant smile must've lit up the whole island where you guys got married on Necker Island! 
I can see why she was his rock, guiding him through life and career. It's beautiful that he's sharing all these fond memories of her... it really gives me chills 
. The fact that he says their love is still shining bright even after she's gone just warms my heart 
. She must've been an amazing mum and grandmum to your kids and grandkids! 
. 50 years together, that's impressive, but I guess you can't put a price on grief 
. Losing someone you love is never easy, and I can only imagine how tough this must be for him. 
It's beautiful to see how she impacted his life and career, and how he credits her with making some of his best decisions 
. The way he's paying tribute to her on Instagram is so sweet 
. I'm sending all my love to Richard Branson and their family during this tough time 
Richard Branson is really lucky to have found Joan Templeman in 1976! She was more than just a wife, she was his partner in every sense of the word. I mean, who wouldn't want someone by their side for 50 years? It's clear that he's still hurting from her passing, but it's beautiful to see him sharing all these lovely memories of them together 
The way he talks about her is so sweet and genuine, it's no wonder she was his guiding light 
. Can't we just have a proper obituary for once? Richard Branson's heartfelt posts about his late wife are sweet, don't get me wrong 
I mean, I'm sure it's true, but can't he just say that without making everyone feel like they're missing out on his personal happiness?