Dan Rather, the former CBS News anchor, is mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Jean Rather, who passed away at the age of 89. The sad news was announced on her husband’s social media account on November 26, 2024, where friends expressed their deep sorrow for the Rather family. Jean died peacefully at their home in Austin, Texas, surrounded by her loved ones and her beautiful artwork after battling cancer.
The heartfelt statement shared by friends described the day as "the saddest of days for Dan and the extended Rather family." It detailed how Jean had been under hospice care for several weeks before her passing, but her death still came as a shock to those who knew her well. The post asked for continued thoughts and prayers for the Rathers, celebrating Jean’s life as "an incredible wife, mother, friend, and artist — and truly one of the best Texans there ever was."
Jean and Dan Rather enjoyed 67 years of marriage, having met during the late 1950s when Dan was working at a radio station in Houston. It was there, amid the hustle of budding careers, they sparked what Dan described as "love at first sight." Reflecting on their initial encounters, he noted, "Not only was she so intelligent, she was smoking hot, and it took me some time to convince her to marry me." Through the decades, Jean stood as Dan's steadfast support during his rise to one of America's most recognized news anchors.
Jean was much more than just the wife of Dan Rather. She was recognized as an accomplished artist whose works were displayed across galleries and private collections nationwide. A proud Texas native, Jean grew up honing her artistic skills at American University as well as at Marymount Manhattan College. Notably, she held the esteemed title of New York City’s Painter Member and served as Vice Chair of the Art Commission before her passing. Jean's obituary highlighted her commitment to her craft, remarking on her dedication to the careful study of master artists’ paintings and sculptures throughout her extensive travels around the globe, from Europe to Southeast Asia.
Her artistic legacy was evident not only through her work but also through the myriad of friends and colleagues she built lasting relationships with. The obituary emphasized, "Many dear friends have been wonderful companions, and their love and support meant the world to her." Jean was described as being able to engage effortlessly with everyone, whether they were presidents, beggars, or artists. Marked by resilience and grace, she navigated through the storms of life, always standing firm beside Dan.
The Rathers shared two children - son Danjack and daughter Robin, along with two grandchildren, whom Jean adored. The couple moved back to Texas permanently in 2021, 15 years after Dan stepped down from his anchor position at CBS News. Even during his distinguished journaling career, Dan credited Jean as being the glue of their family, noting the importance of love and commitment, especially during the challenging early years. "The first year I was with CBS News, I was home just 41 days out of the year," he recalled. Despite the frequent absences, Jean assured him, "Whatever it takes, we’re going to make it work."
Dan Rather’s legacy as one of America’s leading journalists is well-established; he first began his career at CBS News in 1981 and reported on countless events, ranging from the highly publicized assassination of President John F. Kennedy to the turbulent wars and crises affecting the globe. Yet through all the updates of world events and breaking news, it was his family life with Jean and their shared love for their children and grandchildren, which remained immensely important.
Jean Rather was not just known for her love for Dan or her artistic talents; she devoted herself to family and community service as well. Her presence was felt on various nonprofit boards throughout her life, leaving behind reflections of her generosity and spirit. The Rather family shared the final wishes of Jean, requesting memorial contributions to the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders in Austin, reinforcing their commitment to supporting future generations.
Today, with Jean’s passing, the world has lost a talented artist and steadfast spouse, and Dan Rather has lost much more — he has lost his partner, friend, and the love of his life. Those who knew them speak fondly of the abiding love they shared through decades of marriage, full of ups, downs, laughter, and camaraderie. Jean’s artistry and her genuine Texas spirit will continue to resonate through her art and the stories cherished by those who loved her.
While the news brings sorrow to many, it also serves as a moment to celebrate the life lived, and the love shared during almost seven decades. Dan Rather continues to be remembered not only for the impactful journalist he is but also for the deeply personal love story between him and Jean, forever etched within the hearts of those who have followed their lives. Their legacy is one of love, resilience, and unwavering support - lessons on both love and life encapsulated by the union of Dan and Jean Rather.
