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Kit Bond, a prominent figure in Missouri’s political landscape who served as Governor and U.S. Senator, passed away in May 2025 at the age of 86. His enduring impact on politics is matched by the personal milestones he achieved across two distinct phases of his life.
During a career that stretched over 40 years, Bond’s personal life drew attention, particularly his partnership in later years. After his first marriage ended, he found enduring happiness with Linda Pell, a relationship that remained strong until his passing.
Kit Bond’s First Marriage to Carolyn Reid and the 1995 Divorce
Bond’s earlier years were shared with Carolyn Reid, whom he married in 1967. This union coincided with the beginning of Bond’s ascent in Missouri politics. Together, they had a son named Samuel Reid Bond, who followed a path of service as a U.S. Marine, much to his father’s pride.
However, the demands of political life and other personal challenges led to the couple’s separation, culminating in a divorce finalized in 1995. This marked the end of one chapter and the start of a new journey for Bond.
Who Is Linda Pell? Kit Bond’s Second Wife Background
Linda Pell, who became Linda Bond, was well-acquainted with the political scene herself. An alumna of Oak Park High School’s class of 1976, she pursued a career in Washington D.C. after completing an Art History degree at the University of Maryland.
Her resume is a testament to her political acumen, having worked in the Reagan administration and as a speechwriter for his 1984 campaign. She later served as Finance Director for Empower America and the Steve Forbes presidential campaign, eventually becoming one of the capital’s most sought after fundraisers and event organizers. Her work even extended to coordinating funeral portions for former Presidents Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford.
When and How Did Kit Bond Marry Linda Pell in 2002?
Kit Bond and Linda Pell officially became husband and wife in 2002, marking the start of a 23 year marriage that would last until his death. Their wedding brought together two well established figures in Republican politics, uniting the former Senator with a woman who possessed deep experience and connections within the very circles he had navigated for decades.
By the time of their marriage, Linda had already made a name for herself as a Senior Consultant to the Ronald Reagan Library and Foundation, blending her professional expertise with her personal life. The union was a quiet but significant event for the political couple.
Kit Bond and Linda Pell’s Life Together After Marriage
Following their marriage, Kit and Linda Bond built a life together that bridged their professional worlds and personal retreats. They split their time between a home in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and Bond’s family property in Mexico, Missouri, maintaining strong ties to his home state.
Linda’s background in event planning and fundraising complemented Kit’s ongoing political interests, and she remained a prominent figure in Washington social and philanthropic circles. Their partnership was one of mutual respect and shared history, and those close to the couple noted how Linda took incredible care of Kit, especially in his later years.
Kit Bond’s Family Legacy: Surviving Wife Linda and Son Sam
Kit Bond passed away in St. Louis on May 13, 2025, leaving behind his devoted wife Linda and his son Sam from his first marriage. His legacy continues through Sam, who served as a Marine in Iraq, and his two grandchildren, Elizabeth Ivy Bond and Samuel Walker Bond, whom Kit adored.
The Forbes family deeply mourns the death of Senator Kit Bond, a dear friend. A principled champion of the values that has made America inspiringly unique. Our hearts go out to his wife, Linda, and whole family.
— Steve Forbes (@SteveForbesCEO) May 13, 2025
In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, with many acknowledging Linda’s unwavering support throughout their marriage. Governor Mike Kehoe specifically offered condolences to “his wife Linda, his son Sam, and the entire Bond family,” highlighting the close knit nature of the family he left behind.