Lee Radziwill Dies at 85

Lee Radziwill, the younger sister of former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, has passed away at the age of 85. A prominent socialite and a figure of the elite, Lee’s life was marked by her relationships and her standing in society. From her early days as Caroline Lee Bouvier to her illustrious yet tumultuous journey as Princess Lee Radziwill, she left an indelible mark on those who knew her and the public who followed her story. This article will explore Lee’s early life, her complex relationship with Jackie, and her personal life filled with marriages and family.

Lee Radziwill: A Life in the Spotlight

Early Life and Family Background

Caroline Lee Bouvier was born into a well-connected family, the daughter of stockbroker John Vernou Bouvier III and socialite Janet Lee. Growing up in Manhattan, Lee’s early education included prestigious institutions such as the Chapin School and Miss Porter’s School. Her academic pursuits continued at Sarah Lawrence College, where she began to carve out her identity. Interestingly, from a young age, she was often referred to by her middle name “Lee,” which would later become synonymous with her public persona. The influence of her family background, particularly her mother’s socialite status, played a significant role in shaping Lee’s own life as a prominent figure among the elite.

Relationship with Jackie Kennedy

Lee Radziwill’s relationship with her older sister Jackie was both profound and complex. As documented by Vanity Fair, the sisters, born just three years apart, were icons of the 1960s and were frequently compared in the public eye. Their bond was tested when Jackie famously became engaged to John F. Kennedy just two months after Lee’s marriage to Michael Temple Canfield, a moment that some considered an upstaging. Despite their competitive moments, the sisters shared a deep connection that transcended their individual pursuits. Jackie, known to the world as Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, remained a significant figure in Lee’s life, often navigating the challenges of fame and familial expectations together.

Personal Life and Marriage

Throughout her life, Lee Radziwill experienced three marriages, each reflecting different chapters of her journey. Her first marriage to publishing executive Michael Temple Canfield in April 1953 ended in divorce five years later, ultimately leading to an annulment in 1962. Lee then married Prince Stanisław Albrecht Radziwiłł on March 19, 1959, with whom she welcomed two children, son Anthony and daughter Anna Christina. Their marriage, however, concluded in 1974. In 1988, Lee found love again with American director Herbert Ross, but this union too ended in divorce in 2001. Through these experiences, Lee crafted a life that was filled with both personal triumphs and challenges, culminating in her legacy as a beloved figure in society.

Legacy of Lee Radziwill

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

Lee Radziwill was not only a prominent socialite but also a public relations executive and esteemed interior decorator whose career spanned several decades. In 1996, she earned a place in the Vanity Fair International Best Dressed Hall of Fame, a testament to her enduring sense of style and influence in fashion. Her Paris and Manhattan apartments were showcased in the April 2009 issue of Elle Décor magazine, highlighting her talent for creating aesthetically pleasing environments that reflected her sophisticated taste. Although her brief foray into acting included attempts at starring in productions like The Philadelphia Story and Laura, she faced criticism for her performances, which overshadowed her artistic aspirations. Nevertheless, her career was marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence, leaving a lasting impact on the worlds of design and socialite culture.

Impact on Caroline Kennedy and Anna Christina

Lee Radziwill’s legacy extends deeply into the lives of her children, particularly her daughter Anna Christina, affectionately known as Tina, and her son Anthony. Tina has made a name for herself as a producer, carrying forth the creative spirit of her mother. Meanwhile, Anthony Radziwill’s life was tragically cut short when he succumbed to cancer in 1999; his marriage to Carole Radziwill, a star on The Real Housewives of New York City, is often recounted through Carole’s memoir, which explores their life together. Lee’s influence as a mother was profound, instilling a sense of ambition and resilience in both her children, while also navigating the challenges that accompanied her own public persona. The bond Lee shared with her children reflects her commitment to family, ultimately shaping their futures against the backdrop of her illustrious yet complicated life.

Artistic Contributions and Cultural Influence

Lee Radziwill’s artistic contributions are noteworthy, particularly her impactful work as an interior decorator, which was significantly shaped by her collaboration with the renowned designer Lorenzo Mongiardino. She was a vital part of a celebrity circle that boasted luminaries such as Truman Capote and Andy Warhol, further cementing her status as a cultural influencer. Lee’s keen eye for style not only manifested in her own life but also extended to advising her sister, Jackie Kennedy, on her wardrobe choices during her time as First Lady. Lee encouraged Jackie to embrace the designs of Givenchy, showcasing her understanding of fashion as a means of personal expression and influence. Through her artistic endeavors and relationships, Lee Radziwill left an enduring mark on the cultural landscape of her time, inspiring future generations in the realms of fashion and design.

Lee Radziwill Leaves Behind a Significant Estate

Details of the $50 Million Estate

Upon her passing, Lee Radziwill’s Last Will and Testament revealed that her lone surviving child, Anna Christina ‘Tina’ Radziwill, is set to inherit her estimated $50 million estate. This substantial inheritance is a testament to Lee’s life as a prominent socialite and her ability to accumulate wealth throughout her lifetime. The will, signed just five months before her death, notably excludes her daughter-in-law, Carole Radziwill, as well as her niece, Caroline Kennedy. This decision underscores the complexities of familial relationships and the nuances that often accompany matters of inheritance within elite families. Lee Radziwill’s estate reflects not only her financial status but also the intricate family dynamics that will continue to evolve in the wake of her passing.

Inheritance and Family Dynamics

The will indicates that Tina, having survived her mother, becomes the primary beneficiary of the trusts established for Lee Radziwill. Their relationship has been shaped by the ups and downs of family life, particularly following the tragic death of Tina’s brother, Anthony Radziwill, in 1999. Lee’s relationship with her daughter-in-law Carole was marked by fluctuations, often “waxing and waning” as they supported each other through challenging times. Despite being married three times and facing financial difficulties that occasionally required assistance from her sister Jackie Kennedy, Lee’s commitment to her children remained steadfast. The dynamics within the Radziwill family illustrate how love, rivalry, and support intertwine, ultimately impacting Tina’s future as she navigates the weight of her mother’s legacy.

Memorable Properties: Turville Grange and East Hampton

Lee Radziwill’s real estate holdings included the stunning Turville Grange, a manor that showcased her exquisite taste and was expertly decorated by the renowned designer Lorenzo Mongiardino. This property became a cherished retreat for Lee, symbolizing her connection to both elegance and history. At the time of her death, she resided in a co-op apartment located at 160 East 72nd Street in Manhattan, a space that reflected her identity as a socialite and her ties to New York’s elite. Additionally, Lee had a pied-à-terre in Paris, which she often used to split her time between the two vibrant cities. These notable properties not only highlight her lifestyle but also serve as a fitting backdrop to the life of a woman who navigated the complexities of wealth, family, and social standing with grace and style.

Reflections on Lee Radziwill’s Life

Tributes from Family and Friends

In the wake of Lee Radziwill’s passing, heartfelt tributes have poured in from family and friends, capturing the essence of the woman who was so much more than the sister of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Carole Radziwill, her daughter-in-law, expressed profound grief, emphasizing the deep bond they shared, which remained strong despite the complexities following the death of her son, Anthony. Lee’s funeral became a gathering of notable figures from the realms of fashion and high society, illustrating her considerable influence and the connections she fostered throughout her life. The presence of fashion designers and socialites at her memorial highlighted how she was a primetrend in the cultural landscape, as friends recounted stories of her charm and resilience. Lee Radziwill’s life, marked by elegance and grace, will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.

Lee’s Role as the Sister of Jacqueline Kennedy

Lee Radziwill’s existence was often overshadowed by the radiant persona of her sister, Jackie Kennedy, yet she carved out a distinct identity as a formidable socialite and cultural figure in her own right. While many viewed her through the lens of her sister’s prominence, Lee maintained her own unique style and voice, often participating in the social scene that defined the era. Interestingly, Jackie Kennedy’s decision to exclude Lee from her will, despite their close relationship, reflects the complexities within the Bouvier family dynamics. Jackie had already provided for Lee during her lifetime, a testament to their intricate bond. Despite this, Lee Radziwill’s life story is a powerful narrative of a woman who, while often identified as the younger sister, distinctly influenced the fabric of American high society and fashion, establishing her own legacy.

Final Thoughts on a Remarkable Woman

Lee Radziwill’s life was an intricate tapestry woven with threads of history, style, and relationships with notable figures. She is remembered not only as the sister of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis but also for her contributions to culture and fashion, which resonate to this day. Lee’s unique flair and social intelligence allowed her to navigate the upper echelons of society with grace. Her legacy extends beyond her family, influencing generations in fashion and social circles. As a cultural icon, Lee embodied the spirit of her time, leaving behind a rich history that reflects her resilience and creativity. Ultimately, her impact on the world will continue to inspire, reminding us of the remarkable woman who lived boldly and authentically, forever marked in history as the beloved sister of Jackie Kennedy.