Philanthropist and former foreign policy researcher Nancy Kissinger, wife of late Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, has died at the age of 92.
She died Thursday at her home in Kent, Connecticut, according to Robert Johnson, manager of the property, who spoke to The Associated Press. The cause of death was not disclosed. Johnson confirmed plans for her burial next to her late husband at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Nancy Kissinger, the daughter of a New York City lawyer, first met Henry Kissinger while working for New York Gov. Nelson Rockefeller. The couple married in 1974.
Early Life and Career
Nancy Kissinger was known for her involvement in New York’s philanthropic circles and her presence at high-profile fashion events. A profile once described her as a ‘brainy, Blass-bedecked blonde’, referencing her association with designer Bill Blass. She was frequently cited for her ability to leverage connections, with philanthropist Judy Peabody noting in 1989 that she could ‘pick up the phone and get right through to the CEO’.
Public Perception and Influence
Friends and colleagues described her as a trusted advisor to Henry Kissinger. Michael Bloomberg, former New York City mayor and a longtime friend, wrote in a social media post that she was ‘a powerhouse of ideas and insights’ who contributed to her husband’s work in government and philanthropy. Bloomberg added that she was ‘as wise as she was discreet’ and that Henry Kissinger ‘admired and loved her deeply’.
Notable Incident
In 1982, Nancy Kissinger made headlines after she physically confronted a woman at Newark Airport who had allegedly harassed her and Henry Kissinger with insulting questions. The woman, associated with a group linked to politician Lyndon LaRouche, accused Nancy Kissinger of choking her during the altercation. The incident occurred as the Kissingers were traveling to Boston, where Henry Kissinger was scheduled to undergo bypass surgery.