Jackie Kennedy's Cause of Death Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, widely known as Jackie Kennedy, passed away on May 19, 1994 , at the age of 64 in New York City from non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) , a cancer affecting the lymphatic system.

Timeline of Her Final Days

Her illness unfolded rapidly after a startling discovery:

  • November 1993 : A horseback riding accident in Virginia revealed a swollen lymph node, initially thought to be from infection.
  • December 1993 : Diagnosed with NHL; she began chemotherapy in January 1994 and shared the news publicly.
  • April 1994 : Admitted to New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center for a perforated ulcer (a steroid treatment side effect); cancer had spread to her brain and spinal cord, resisting therapies.
  • May 19, 1994 : She died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, including children Caroline and John Jr., as John Jr. announced: "Last night, at around 10:15, my mother passed on... She was surrounded by her friends and family and her books and the people and the things that she loved."

NHL, the most common lymphoma in the U.S. and more prevalent in women over 60, was treatable but not curable in her case, with typical life expectancy post- diagnosis at 5-10 years—hers progressed faster.

What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

This cancer originates in lymphocytes (infection-fighting white blood cells). Jackie’s form spread aggressively, unaffected by advanced treatments like brain drug delivery tubes. Modern advancements since 1994 have greatly improved survival rates, as noted in recent reflections on her case.

Key Fact| Details 13
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Death Date| May 19, 1994
Age| 64
Location| New York City
Cause| Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Burial| May 23, 1994, beside JFK at Arlington National Cemetery 2

Her Legacy in Context

Jackie bore immense public burdens with grace—from First Lady (1961-1963) during JFK's assassination to editor and mother—yet her private cancer battle remained dignified. President Clinton eulogized: "God gave her very great gifts and imposed upon her great burdens. She bore them all with dignity and grace." Recent 2026 articles revisit her final moments, highlighting her strength amid tragedy.

TL;DR : Jackie Kennedy died of non-Hodgkin lymphoma on May 19, 1994, after a swift decline from diagnosis in late 1993.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.