Bernadette Chirac, the widow of former French President Jacques Chirac, died Friday, June 5, 2026, at the age of 93 [1], [2].
As a former first lady of France, Chirac remained a prominent and often polarizing figure in French public life long after her husband's presidency ended. Her death marks the end of one of the last remaining figures from the era of Jacques Chirac's leadership.
Her daughter, Claude Chirac, announced the news on Saturday. She said her mother died in the evening, surrounded by her loved ones [3]. Bernadette Chirac had recently celebrated her 93rd birthday on May 18, 2026 [4].
President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the loss of the former first lady in a statement. "A great lady of heart is gone," Macron said [5].
While she was known for her steadfast support of her husband, Bernadette Chirac also maintained a distinct public identity. She was often recognized for her strong opinions, and her role in supporting various charitable causes throughout her life. The announcement of her death has prompted tributes across France, reflecting her long tenure in the national spotlight.
Family members and officials have not yet released details regarding funeral arrangements or whether the state will provide official honors for the former first lady. She died shortly after her latest birthday, ending a life spent largely in the presence of France's highest political circles [1], [4].
“"A great lady of heart is gone"”
The death of Bernadette Chirac closes a chapter on the public image of the Chirac presidency. As a figure who balanced the traditional role of a supportive spouse with a formidable personal presence, her passing invites a retrospective on the social and political expectations of French first ladies during the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
