KITTY DUKAKIS, the wife of former governor Michael Dukakis, who brought an emotive yin to his often technocratic yang, died on Friday at their Brookline home. She was 88. The cause was complications of dementia, their son John said.
She was a prominent presence throughout her husband’s public life, which included a record-setting 12 years as governor and serving as the Democratic nominee for president in 1988.
An advocate for refugees, homeless people, and others at society’s margins, Kitty Dukakis became known for her candor in discussing her struggles with addiction and depression, including writing about the dramatic improvement she experienced following electroconvulsive therapy.
The Jewish daughter of Boston Symphony Orchestra first violinist and Boston Pops conductor Harry Ellis Dickson and Jane (Goldberg) Dickson, Kitty Dukakis was appointed in 1978 by President Jimmy Carter to the first President’s Commission on the Holocaust. “Perhaps in the entire history of civilization, the Holocaust was the most important object lesson in man’s inhumanity to man,” she told the National Governors Association in 1983, according to The New York Times.
Statements in response to news of her death:
Gov. Maura Healey.“I’m saddened to hear about the passing of Kitty Dukakis, who was a force for good in public life and behind the scenes. 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. 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. My heart is with Governor Dukakis and their loved ones during this difficult time.”
Sen. Edward Markey. “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend Kitty Dukakis, a woman whose dedication to public service, to uplifting others, and to human rights was fueled by her indomitable spirit. Throughout her remarkable life, Kitty transformed her personal struggles into positive and persistent change – a proud legacy that continues to benefit our Commonwealth and our country.
“Kitty was her husband’s most trusted adviser and confidant, fighting alongside Michael to advance the causes in which they believed. She was a champion for the most vulnerable in society and a fierce advocate for raising awareness about the Holocaust. Kitty worked to push open the doors to opportunity for more women to serve in government and leadership positions. She did all of this with a joy and selflessness that only brought us closer to her.
“Kitty was open about her battle with depression and addiction when few others were, and her grace and humility in the face of an intensely personal struggle inspired countless people to better understand these diseases and to extend assistance and understanding instead of recrimination and judgment. Today, the Kitty Dukakis Treatment Center for Women stands as a testament to her life’s work serving others.
“Kitty was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Long after they left the public spotlight, Kitty and Michael continued to live purposeful lives together, dedicated to public service in all forms, and fighting for a better future for everyone. Whether you knew her or not, Kitty Dukakis made all of us better, stronger, and more compassionate, and that legacy will never be forgotten. My prayers are with Michael and the entire Dukakis family.”
Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “Kitty Dukakis was a force of nature who will be remembered for her spirit and her courage. Early on in my first campaign, Kitty jumped in feet-first and shared advice grounded in decades of public service — advice that has stuck with me through the years. Our Commonwealth was lucky to have her. I’m thinking of Michael and the entire Dukakis family.”
Massachusetts Democratic Party chairman Steve Kerrigan. “Kitty Dukakis used her role as first lady of the Commonwealth to champion refugees and the homeless, promote greater awareness of the Holocaust, and advocate for placing more women in leadership roles within state government. Yet, it was her courage in publicly sharing her struggles with depression and substance use disorder that truly defined her strength. Her honesty and bravery helped break down stigma, inspiring countless others to seek support and begin their own journeys of recovery. Kitty Dukakis made our Commonwealth—and our world—a better place. We extend our deepest condolences to Governor Dukakis, John, Andrea, Kara, and their families.”