Where is Ted Kennedy Buried?

Where Is Ted Kennedy Buried? A Look At A Statesman's Final Resting Place

Where is Ted Kennedy Buried?

For anyone who has followed the rich, complex history of American politics, the name Ted Kennedy, you know, really stands out. He was, in a way, a truly towering figure for decades, a voice that, for many, championed progress and, well, a better future for people. It's only natural, then, that there's often a curiosity about where such an important person, a figure of his stature, eventually found his final rest. People often ask, you know, about the specific location, the details surrounding it, and what it means for his legacy.

This curiosity, it's almost, really about more than just a place on a map; it's about understanding the full story of a life lived in public service. Ted Kennedy's journey, from a young man to a seasoned senator, was, in some respects, full of moments that shaped the country. His passing, as a matter of fact, marked the end of an era, and the location of his burial, well, it tells a significant part of that story, connecting him to his family's enduring presence in American history.

So, if you've ever wondered about the precise spot where this influential senator was laid to rest, you're certainly not alone. This article, you see, will take a look at the details of his burial, exploring not just the "where" but also, kind of, the "why" behind his final resting place, connecting it to his family, his service, and the respect he earned over many years.

Table of Contents

Biography and Personal Details of Ted Kennedy

Edward Moore Kennedy, often known simply as Ted, was, you know, a very important figure in American politics for a long time. Born in the Dorchester section of Boston, Massachusetts, on February 22, 1932, he was the youngest of nine children in a family that, in a way, became synonymous with public service. His parents, Joseph Patrick Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald, truly instilled in him a sense of duty, a characteristic that, apparently, guided his whole life. He was, of course, the younger brother of two other prominent American politicians, John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Robert Francis Kennedy, both of whom, sadly, met tragic ends.

His early life, too, saw him attend Harvard University, though he was, actually, expelled for a time due to an incident involving cheating on a Spanish exam. This early setback, however, did not define his path. He later served in the United States Army, a period of service that, as we will see, played a role in his later life. His career in the Senate, which lasted for many years, established him as a major voice for American progressivism, a role he, basically, embraced fully. He married Joan Bennett, and his life, in some respects, was a constant engagement with the political landscape of the nation.

His support for Barack Obama for president in 2008, for example, was a very significant moment, and he, actually, overcame kidney stones to deliver a memorable speech at the Democratic Convention that year. This showed, really, his dedication even in the face of personal challenges. Ted Kennedy's passing, on August 25, 2009, at the age of 77, marked the end of a remarkable life, one that, in a way, left an indelible mark on the country. He died at the family compound in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, after a battle with brain cancer, specifically a glioblastoma.

Here are some personal details and bio data for Ted Kennedy:

Full NameEdward Moore Kennedy
Date of BirthFebruary 22, 1932
Place of BirthDorchester, Boston, Massachusetts
Date of DeathAugust 25, 2009
Age at Death77
Cause of DeathBrain Cancer (Glioblastoma)
ParentsJoseph Patrick Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald
SiblingsJohn F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, and others
First WifeJoan Bennett
ServiceUnited States Army
Political OfficeUnited States Senator

The Final Resting Place: Arlington National Cemetery

When people ask, "where is Ted Kennedy buried?", the answer, quite simply, is Arlington National Cemetery. This revered site, located in Arlington, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., is, in some respects, a place of profound national significance. It's a place where, you know, men and women who served the United States, often with great distinction, are laid to rest. For Ted Kennedy, a senator for many years and a former member of the United States Army, this location was, apparently, a fitting choice for his final repose.

The decision to bury him at Arlington, you see, connects him directly to a long line of American heroes and public servants. It's a place that, in a way, embodies the history and sacrifices made for the nation. His burial there, in section 45, just to the south of his brother Robert F. Kennedy, places him among those who, you know, have shaped the country's destiny. This particular section of the cemetery holds a special resonance, as it is also where his other brother, John F. Kennedy, rests. So, it's not just any spot; it's a very specific, historically significant area within the grounds.

The landscape of Arlington, with its rolling hills and rows of white headstones, provides a serene and solemn backdrop for the graves of those interred there. For Ted Kennedy, his gravesite, which, as a matter of fact, is now open to visitors, is marked by a white wooden cross and a marble footstone. These markers, in their simplicity, convey a sense of quiet dignity, allowing visitors to easily identify his resting place. It's a spot that, literally, invites contemplation about his life and the legacy he left behind, a place that, really, feels like a part of the national story.

A Place Among Brothers: The Kennedy Family Plot

One of the most touching aspects of Ted Kennedy's burial is, you know, his proximity to his slain brothers, John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy. He was, actually, laid to rest on the same slope, a mere 100 feet from them, joining them on hallowed ground at Arlington National Cemetery. This arrangement, in some respects, symbolizes the enduring bond of the Kennedy family and their collective impact on American political history. It's a very poignant gathering of brothers who, truly, shared a unique destiny and commitment to public life.

Specifically, his gravesite is, apparently, 95 feet south of the grave of Senator Robert Kennedy. Robert Kennedy's grave, in turn, is just steps away from John Kennedy's. This creates, in a way, a very distinct family area within the vast cemetery. Visitors to Arlington, then, can see the graves of these three brothers relatively close to one another, offering a powerful visual representation of their shared history and the family's enduring presence in the national consciousness. It's a very striking sight, a testament to their collective story.

The new pathway, you know, that was added for Ted Kennedy's grave in 2012, further enhanced the accessibility and visibility of this family grouping. At that time, a memorial headstone was, actually, dedicated in honor of Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., who was the eldest of the Kennedy brothers. Joseph Jr., as a matter of fact, was predicted by many to be the leader and politician in the family before his untimely death. So, while Joseph Jr. is not buried there, this memorial, in a way, completes the symbolic presence of the brothers, making the area a focal point for understanding the family's sacrifices and aspirations. It's a very meaningful spot, truly, for anyone interested in the family's saga.

Qualifying for Hallowed Ground: Ted Kennedy's Service

The eligibility requirements for burial at Arlington National Cemetery are, you know, quite specific, reflecting the honor and respect associated with this sacred ground. Ted Kennedy, as a matter of fact, met these qualifications due to his years of service to the nation. His two years of service in the United States Army, combined with his extensive time as a United States Senator, provided the necessary criteria for him to be interred there. This dual aspect of his public life, military service and legislative leadership, very much underscored his qualification.

His time in the Army, while perhaps less publicized than his Senate career, was, you know, a fundamental part of his commitment to the country. It was, in a way, a foundational experience that, apparently, shaped his understanding of duty and sacrifice. This military service, even though it was for a relatively short period, was sufficient to establish his eligibility for burial in a place reserved for those who served in the armed forces. It's a very important detail that, really, often gets overlooked amidst his long political career.

Beyond his military service, his tenure as a senator, spanning many decades, also played a crucial role. As a former member of Congress, especially one who served for such an extended period and held such a prominent position, he was, basically, recognized for his contributions to the nation's governance and welfare. So, it was a combination of these two significant periods of service that, truly, qualified him for a spot in Arlington, a place that, in some respects, honors those who dedicated their lives to the United States. It's a testament to his comprehensive service, really, to the American people.

The Farewell: Funeral and Burial Details

Ted Kennedy's passing on August 25, 2009, at his home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, was, you know, a moment of national mourning. The days following his death involved a series of services that reflected his stature and the deep respect he commanded. His funeral, as a matter of fact, was held at a Catholic church in Boston, a city that, in a way, was very much his political home. This public ceremony allowed many to pay their last respects to the "Lion of the Senate," as he was often called.

A particularly memorable moment during these services was, you know, the eulogy delivered by President Barack Obama. Obama, who Ted Kennedy had strongly supported in 2008, spoke at the funeral in Boston, offering words of remembrance and appreciation for the senator's life and work. This address, in some respects, highlighted the deep connection between Kennedy and the Democratic Party, and his lasting influence on American political thought. It was, truly, a powerful tribute from one leader to another, a very significant part of the farewell.

Following the funeral services in Boston, Ted Kennedy's body was, apparently, flown to Washington, D.C., on Saturday, August 29, 2009, for his burial across the Potomac River at Arlington National Cemetery. The burial itself was a private ceremony, held at dusk that Saturday evening. Theodore Cardinal McCarrick, the archbishop emeritus of Washington, D.C., performed the burial service, adding a solemn spiritual dimension to the proceedings. He was, literally, laid to rest alongside his slain brothers, John and Robert, on that hallowed ground, a final gathering for the family. His wife, Victoria, whom many credit with providing him strength, was, of course, present, along with other family members who gathered around the gravesite as an honor guard carried his casket. It was, really, a quiet and deeply personal moment, marking the end of a very public life.

Visiting the Gravesite: What to Expect

For those who wish to pay their respects, Ted Kennedy's gravesite at Arlington National Cemetery is, you know, open to visitors. The cemetery itself is a place of immense history and quiet contemplation, and a visit there offers a chance to connect with the stories of many who served the nation. His gravesite, as a matter of fact, is located in section 45, a very specific area that, in some respects, is easily identifiable.

When you visit, you'll find his grave marked by a white wooden cross and a marble footstone. These markers are, apparently, simple yet clear, making it easy to locate his resting place among the many others. The gravesite is, actually, to the left of the John F. Kennedy site, and it's at the foot of the slope where his brothers are also buried. This means you can, truly, see the graves of John, Robert, and Ted Kennedy relatively close to each other, forming a powerful family grouping that, really, draws many visitors.

The cemetery provides maps and, you know, often has staff available to help guide visitors to specific graves. Walking through Arlington, you'll experience a sense of solemnity and history, with the rows of white headstones stretching across the landscape. The area around the Kennedy graves, in particular, tends to be a bit more frequented, given the family's prominence. It's a place where, as a matter of fact, you can spend time reflecting on the lives of those who served, and Ted Kennedy's grave is, truly, a significant stop on that journey. You can learn more about visiting Arlington National Cemetery on our site, and also find information about the cemetery's history on this page.

Ted Kennedy's Enduring Legacy

Ted Kennedy's life, you know, was very much dedicated to public service, and his legacy, in some respects, continues to influence American politics and social thought even today. By his later years, he had, actually, come to be viewed as a major figure and a powerful spokesman for American progressivism. His work in the Senate, spanning nearly five decades, involved, literally, countless legislative battles and achievements, touching on areas like healthcare, civil rights, and education.

His role in supporting Barack Obama's presidential campaign in 2008, for example, was a pivotal moment, signaling a passing of the torch, in a way, to a new generation of leadership. Despite battling serious illness, his commitment to his beliefs was, apparently, unwavering, culminating in that memorable speech at the Democratic Convention. This dedication, truly, showcased his resilience and his deep conviction for the causes he championed.

Even after his passing, his impact, you know, still resonates. The principles he advocated for, the policies he helped shape, and the spirit of public service he embodied, all of these things, actually, remain relevant. His burial at Arlington National Cemetery, alongside his brothers, serves as a physical reminder of his place in the nation's history, a very visible connection to a family that, truly, dedicated so much to the United States. It's a legacy that, really, continues to inspire many, a testament to a life lived with purpose and commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ted Kennedy's Burial

Where exactly in Arlington is Ted Kennedy buried?

Ted Kennedy is, you know, buried in Section 45 of Arlington National Cemetery. His gravesite is, apparently, located just to the south of his brother Robert F. Kennedy's grave. It's also, as a matter of fact, situated to the left of the John F. Kennedy site, creating a very distinct family area. You can find it on the same slope as his brothers, about 100 feet away, a truly revered spot within the cemetery grounds.

Who else is buried near Ted Kennedy?

Ted Kennedy is, you know, laid to rest alongside his two older brothers, John F. Kennedy, the former president, and Robert F. Kennedy, a former senator and attorney general. Specifically, his grave is, apparently, 95 feet south of Robert Kennedy's, which is, in turn, just steps away from John Kennedy's grave. This family grouping, in some respects, is a significant draw for visitors to Arlington National Cemetery, a very poignant collection of lives dedicated to public service.

Why did Ted Kennedy qualify for burial at Arlington?

Ted Kennedy qualified for burial at Arlington National Cemetery due to his extensive public service. This included, you know, his two years of service in the United States Army, which, actually, is a primary qualification for interment there. Additionally, his many decades as a United States Senator, a very prominent figure in Congress, also contributed to his eligibility. So, it was, truly, a combination of his military service and his long, distinguished career in the Senate that, apparently, secured his place on this hallowed ground.

Where is Ted Kennedy Buried?
Where is Ted Kennedy Buried?

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Full Bio: Ted Kennedy and the '60s | All Of It | WNYC
Full Bio: Ted Kennedy and the '60s | All Of It | WNYC

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Ted Kennedy
Ted Kennedy

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