Eileen Bond, Former Wife of Alan Bond, Dies Peacefully at 87 Following Stroke
Eileen Bond, the former wife of well-known and controversial Western Australian businessman Alan Bond, has passed away at the age of 87.
Her family confirmed to the ABC that she died peacefully on Wednesday night, surrounded by loved ones, after suffering a severe stroke on Sunday.
Her son John Bond paid tribute to her, saying she lived life to the fullest and was always a source of support for her family. Affectionately known as “Red,” Eileen was remembered for her warmth and her ability to connect with people of all ages.
“She had an extraordinary ability to just relate to people,” he told ABC Radio Perth.
Eileen and Alan Bond married in 1955 at the age of 17 and had four children together before divorcing in 1992. The couple rose to public prominence during Alan Bond’s business success, particularly during the 1983 America’s Cup victory by Australia II, an event that brought the nation together in celebration.
John recalled the family’s time in Newport, Rhode Island, for the historic yacht race, saying his mother won over many Americans and helped rally support for the Australian team, nicknamed the “Boxing Kangaroo.”
He also shared a recent memory of a Sunday lunch where Eileen’s granddaughters were enchanted by her bold sunglasses and earrings, eager to know where she had found them.
“She related to all ages,” he said.
Although Alan Bond left behind a controversial legacy, marked by financial collapse and a prison sentence, Eileen remained on good terms with him. She returned to Perth from London following his death in 2015, describing it at the time as a “very sad” moment and noting they had remained in frequent contact.
John Bond described his parents as “soul mates” who never lost their connection, even after their marriage ended. He praised his mother’s unwavering loyalty and fierce dedication to her family.
“She would defend her family to the hilt,” he said. “We could do no wrong — which maybe isn’t always right — but she was a staunch and loyal supporter of anyone who needed it.”
In a joint statement, her children — John Bond, Craig Bond, and Jody Fewster — remembered her as the heart of the family.
“She was the matriarch, the glue of the Bond family,” they wrote. “Red only knew one speed — flat out — and she brought everyone along for the ride.”
They said she touched many lives with her kindness, humour, and unmistakable energy. “She brought joy wherever she went.”
