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Her son, John Dukakis, said in a statement that the mother of three died "surrounded by family."
She was born on December 26, 1936, and lived a full life fighting to make the world a better place and sharing her vulnerabilities to help others face theirs. She was loving, feisty and fun, and had a keen sensitivity to people from all walks of life. She and our dad, Michael Dukakis, shared an enviable partnership for over 60 years and loved each other deeply. Thank you to all who have touched our lives over the years or who were touched by our mother."
The family said the cause of death was complications of dementia. She died at her home in Brookline, Massachusetts, they said.
Michael Dukakis, the Democratic nominee, lost the 1988 presidential election to his Republican opponent, then Vice President George H. W. Bush.
Kitty Dukakis was a tireless advocate for mental health and warned children about alcohol and drug abuse.
She was open about her struggles with amphetamines and alcohol and wrote about them in her books "Now You Know" and "Shock." In the latter, she discusses how shock therapy helped alleviate her depression, according to the Washington Post.
Mass. Senator Ed Markey called her a "champion for the most vulnerable in society."
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend Kitty Dukakis, a woman whose dedication to public service, to uplifting others, and to human rights was fueled by her indomitable spirit,” the Democrat said in a statement. “Kitty was open about her battle with depression and addiction when few others were, and her grace and humility in the face of an intensely personal struggle inspired countless people to better understand these diseases and to extend assistance and understanding instead of recrimination and judgment.”
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey thanked Kitty Dukakis for her years of public service and advocacy on vital issues.
“She was a strong advocate for children, women, and refugees, while also taking a leadership role in ensuring that the horrors of the Holocaust are never forgotten," Healey said in her statement. "She spoke courageously about her struggles with substance use disorder and mental health, which serves as an inspiration to us all to break down stigma and seek help. My heart is with [former] Gov. Dukakis and their loved ones during this difficult time.”
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