Paris – 06.06.2026: Bernadette Chirac, widow of the former French president Jacques Chirac, died on June 5, 2026, at the age of 93. Her daughter, Claude Chirac, confirmed the death on Saturday morning to the news agency AFP. Bernadette Chirac, born Bernadette Chodron de Courcel on May 18, 1933, in Paris, grew up in a wealthy family and studied at the prestigious Sciences Po. There she met Jacques Chirac, whom she married in 1956. Together they accompanied his political career, which took him from the Paris municipal administration, through the ministry, to the presidency. During that time, Bernadette Chirac was a constant support and significantly shaped her husband’s public image.
As first lady from 1995 to 2007, she not only took on representative duties but also became actively involved in social projects. She was especially known for her leadership of the Fondation Hôpitaux de Paris-Hôpitaux de France, which works to improve conditions in children’s hospitals. Her initiative “Opération Pièces Jaunes” raised important donations over the years and contributed to the modernization of numerous facilities.
Bernadette Chirac was the only first lady of the Fifth Republic to hold a political office of her own. From 1979 until 2015, she continuously served as general councillor of the department of Corrèze, significantly influencing local politics. Her political career in Corrèze began in 1979 when she was first elected to the General Council. She was appreciated for her simplicity and tireless dedication to the region.
In addition to her political commitment, Bernadette Chirac was known for her sharp sense of humor and independence. She did not hesitate to express her opinion and often presented herself as an independent personality who transcended the traditional role of the first lady. Her frankness and honesty made her a respected figure among the French public.
The Chirac family was shaken by personal tragedies, especially by the death of their daughter Laurence in 2016, who suffered for a long time from a severe eating disorder. After the death of her daughter, Bernadette Chirac intensified her dedication to supporting families with similar fates and engaged in various charitable organizations.
After the death of her husband in 2019, Bernadette Chirac largely withdrew from public life. Her last public appearances were in 2018, before retiring from political life. Nevertheless, her influence on French politics and society remained notable.
President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Bernadette Chirac as a “great lady” who “changed the fate of millions of patients through her commitment.” He expressed his deep sorrow at her passing and highlighted her lasting influence on French society.
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