Renata Ford, the widow of former Toronto mayor Rob Ford, has died at the age of 55. Her family announced her passing on Monday night, describing the loss as "incredibly painful."
Premier Doug Ford, Renata's brother-in-law, released a statement expressing heartbreak for their children, Stephanie and Dougie, who have endured significant hardship at a young age.
"Our whole family is hurting for them," Doug Ford said in the statement. "We ask that people respect their privacy during this very difficult time."
The cause of Renata Ford's death remains unclear. Her passing comes after a political bid in 2019 when she ran as the People's Party of Canada candidate in Etobicoke, finishing in fourth place. Following her election attempt, she initiated a lawsuit against her late husband's brothers, including Premier Doug Ford, for $15 million CAD (approximately $10 million USD). The lawsuit alleged mismanagement of family assets and Rob Ford's estate, claims that the premier has denied.
The New Blue Party of Ontario released a statement noting Renata Ford's support for their party, calling her an advocate for "freedom and the grassroots." The party also extended prayers to her children, who have now lost both parents at a young age.
Mark Towhey, former chief of staff to Rob Ford, told Newstalk 1010 that Renata's death was unexpected. He recalled her two children, Stephanie and Dougie, as very young when they would visit the office, noting they are now approximately 20 and 18 years old and that it must be a difficult time for them.
Renata Ford married Rob Ford in 2000. Rob Ford served as Toronto's mayor from 2010 to 2014, a period marked by controversy, including allegations of crack cocaine use. He later admitted to smoking crack cocaine during a "drunken stupor" but denied being an addict. He was never charged with a crime and, despite pressure, did not resign until his declining health forced him to withdraw from the mayoral re-election bid and return to his City Council seat.
Rob Ford died in 2016 at the age of 46 after a battle with pleomorphic liposarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. During her husband's time in public office, Renata Ford largely avoided the spotlight, and details about her personal life were scarce.