Joan Beverly Kroc, born Joan Beverly Mansfield on August 27, 1928, in West St. Paul, Minnesota, was an American philanthropist whose life was marked by generosity, dedication to peace, and an enduring impact on American society. Best known as the third wife of Ray Kroc, the founder of McDonald’s Corporation, Joan Kroc became one of the most influential philanthropists of her time, transforming the fortune she inherited into a lasting legacy that continues to benefit countless people around the world.
Early Life and Family Background
Joan Beverly Mansfield grew up in Minnesota, a state she would carry fond memories of throughout her life. Little is widely documented about her early childhood, but it is known that she displayed an early interest in music and community involvement. Her upbringing in a modest household instilled in her the values of diligence, compassion, and humility—traits that would later define her philanthropic endeavors.
In 1945, Joan married Rawland F. “Rollie” Smith, and the couple had one daughter, Linda Smith. The marriage eventually ended in divorce, but it marked the beginning of her journey toward building personal and professional relationships that would later shape her life. Joan’s early adult years were spent balancing family responsibilities and nurturing her talents, particularly in music.
Meeting Ray Kroc and Marriage
Joan’s life took a transformative turn in 1957 when she met Ray Kroc while playing the organ at the Criterion Restaurant in St. Paul, Minnesota. Ray Kroc, already a prominent figure in the burgeoning fast-food industry, was drawn to Joan’s charisma, warmth, and generosity. Both Joan and Ray were previously married, and after a period of personal transition, they married in 1969. This union not only solidified Joan’s place in American business circles but also positioned her to leverage Ray’s fortune for philanthropic purposes.
Inheriting a Fortune
Following the death of Ray Kroc in 1984, Joan inherited a substantial portion of his fortune, which was estimated at $500 million at the time. Over the years, this wealth grew, eventually reaching over $3 billion by the time of her death in 2003. Joan’s inheritance, however, was never about personal indulgence. Instead, she became one of the most generous philanthropists of her era, channeling her wealth into causes that reflected her passion for peace, education, humanitarian aid, and public welfare.
Philanthropic Vision
Joan Beverly Kroc’s philanthropy was defined by both its scale and its focus. She believed deeply in the power of giving to transform society, and her contributions have left a permanent mark on numerous institutions.
One of her most significant contributions was to the Salvation Army, to which she donated $1.6 billion. This staggering gift supported a wide range of social services, including homeless shelters, rehabilitation programs, and community development initiatives.
Joan also invested heavily in education and peace initiatives. She donated $50 million to the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice at the University of San Diego and another $50 million to the Joan B. Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame. These institutes continue to advance research, policy development, and practical solutions for global peace and conflict resolution.
Her philanthropy extended to media and cultural initiatives as well. She donated $200 million to National Public Radio (NPR), ensuring that high-quality, independent journalism remained accessible to the American public. Additionally, she supported healthcare and conservation efforts, including a $20 million donation to the San Diego Hospice & Palliative Care and $5 million to the San Diego Zoo’s Zoological Society.
Joan’s approach to philanthropy was hands-on. She did not merely provide financial support; she was actively involved in shaping the programs she funded, ensuring that her contributions had meaningful, long-term impacts.
Personal Qualities and Lifestyle
Despite her wealth, Joan Beverly Kroc was known for her humility and simplicity. Friends and colleagues described her as warm, approachable, and deeply compassionate. She preferred to let her actions speak louder than her public image, often avoiding the spotlight while making transformative contributions behind the scenes.
Joan had a particular passion for music, often participating in community events and performances. Her personal interests reflected her commitment to cultural enrichment and the arts, further demonstrating her belief in the power of creativity to improve lives.
Death and Legacy
Joan Kroc passed away on October 12, 2003, at the age of 75, due to brain cancer. Her death marked the end of a remarkable life, but her legacy continues to resonate across the United States and beyond. Institutions bearing her name, such as the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice and the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, continue to promote her vision for a more just and peaceful world.
Her charitable contributions have inspired countless others to engage in philanthropy and social activism. Joan Beverly Kroc’s life serves as a testament to the enduring power of generosity, strategic giving, and a commitment to improving the human condition.
Conclusion
Joan Beverly Kroc’s story is one of extraordinary generosity, visionary philanthropy, and lasting impact. From her early life in Minnesota to her pivotal role in shaping some of the most influential charitable initiatives in America, Joan exemplified a life dedicated to giving back. Her legacy endures not only through the institutions she supported but also in the countless lives improved by her selfless contributions.
Through her philanthropic vision, Joan Beverly Kroc demonstrated that true wealth is measured not by the accumulation of money, but by the positive change one brings to society. Her life remains an inspiration to all who seek to make a meaningful difference in the world.
The Globe Gist celebrates Joan Beverly Kroc as a symbol of compassion, dedication, and the transformative power of philanthropy. Her story is a reminder that one individual, with vision and heart, can leave an indelible mark on the world.
Joan Beverly Kroc transformed her role from being Ray Kroc’s wife to becoming a humanitarian icon. Yet, behind every chapter of McDonald’s success and philanthropy stands the man who built it all. To understand the roots of this empire, one must look closer at Raymond Albert “Ray” Kroc, the visionary who changed the way the world eats.
