Bernadette Chirac, the wife of former French President Jacques Chirac and a formidable presence in French public life, has died at the age of 93. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, according to a statement from her family.
A Life in the Public Eye
Born Bernadette Chodron de Courcel on May 18, 1933, in Paris, she married Jacques Chirac in 1956. As first lady of France from 1995 to 2007, she was known for her elegance, sharp wit, and dedication to charitable causes. She particularly focused on issues related to children and the elderly.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Bernadette Chirac founded the Fondation Claude Chirac, named after her daughter, which supports vulnerable children. She also served as a patron for numerous cultural and social organizations. Her straightforward manner and occasional humorous remarks made her a beloved figure among the French public.
In 2017, she attended a ceremony paying tribute to Simone Veil at the Invalides in Paris, one of her last public appearances. Her husband Jacques Chirac, who served as president from 1995 to 2007, died in 2019 at age 86.
Reactions and Tributes
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. Current President Emmanuel Macron described her as "a woman of courage and heart who embodied the dignity of France." Former President Nicolas Sarkozy recalled her "unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable."
Bernadette Chirac is survived by her daughter Claude and her grandchildren. Her passing marks the end of an era in French political history.
