The business tycoon said he “fell in love” with her at first sight. They married in 1989 at Branson’s Necker Island, his 30-hectare private island in the British Virgin Islands, the London Telegraph reported
The couple had three children, Holly and Sam – now 44 and 40, respectively – and Sarah Clare, who died shortly after her birth in 1979.
Branson with his wife Joan and their young children, Holly and Sam.
On her 80th birthday this year, Branson paid tribute to Joan, whom he has described as a private person.
“Thank you for being by my side through it all – the highs, the lows, and all those quiet, content and peaceful moments in between,” he said.
“These are the moments I cherish most with you, I love you more and more each year.”
The Telegraph reported that in 2016, in a love letter to his wife, Branson said: “I experienced love at first sight upon meeting a blonde-haired, down-to-earth, Scottish beauty named Joan, who just happened to be making a cup of tea.
“I generally make up my mind about someone within 30 seconds of meeting them, and Joan won my heart instantly. She was unlike any other woman I had ever met.
“She was beautiful. She was bright. She was witty. She was down to earth. She was fun. And she had eyes made of magic.”
Celebrities also paid tribute to Joan Branson on social media.
“Very heartbreaking. Rod and I are so saddened to hear this news and send all our prayers to you and your loved ones,” wrote Penny Lancaster, the model and TV personality who is married to singer Rod Stewart.
Television presenter Davina McCall said: “Oh … no … Richard, I’m so sorry. Thinking of you and Holly and Sam xx.”
AP
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