11-05-2025
Kitty Dukakis to be honored at Sunday memorial service
Dukakis, who passed away in March, was an activist, author and mother who shared her personal struggle with alcoholism and depression, the treatment options she used, and the relapses she had. In her political life, she served as a presidential appointee on national Holocaust panels and championed aid to the homeless and support for political refugees.
She
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'She fought to make the world better, sharing her vulnerabilities to help others face theirs,' said in a statement from her family shortly after her passing. 'She was loving, feisty and fun, and had a keen sensitivity to people from all walks of life.'
Born Katharine Dickson in Cambridge, she graduated from Lesley College in 1963 and married Dukakis shortly after graduating, her second marriage.
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During her husband's run for president, she had an active role in the campaign, giving countless speeches and interviews on his behalf.
Michael Dukakis, 91, was the governor of Massachusetts from 1975 to 1979 and from 1983 to 1991, and he ran for president in the 1988 race that he lost to Vice President George H.W. Bush.
Following her death, Massachusetts political leaders remembered her for her dedication to uplifting others, public service, and for breaking barriers for women in leadership.
'She was a strong advocate for children, women and refugees, while also taking a leadership role in ensuring that the horrors of the Holocaust are never forgotten,' Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said in a statement after Dukakis's death. 'She spoke courageously about her struggles with substance use disorder and mental health, which serves as an inspiration to us all to break down stigma and seek help.'
Talia Lissauer can be reached at
