Roberta Brooke Russell, better known as Brooke Astor, was born on March 30, 1902 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. She was the only child of Mabel Howard and United States Marine Corps Commander John Henry Russell, Jr. Growing up, Brooke lived in various places including Maryland, Virginia, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti. Her upbringing was diverse and cultured, shaping her into the sophisticated woman she would become.
At the young age of seventeen, Brooke married politician John Dryden Kuser. Their marriage lasted eleven years before coming to an end. Following her divorce, Brooke married Charles Henry Marshall, an investment banker. Together, they had a son named Anthony. Sadly, Charles passed away, leaving Brooke widowed once again. It was during this time that she caught the attention of wealthy businessman Vincent Astor. The two quickly fell in love and tied the knot, making her the third wife of Vincent Astor.
Brooke Astor was a prominent philanthropist, dedicating much of her time and resources to various charitable causes. She was particularly passionate about supporting organizations such as The New York Public Library, The Animal Medical Center, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Her generosity and commitment to giving back made a lasting impact on the community.
Aside from her philanthropic efforts, Brooke Astor was also a talented writer. She authored several books including "The Bluebird is at Home" and "Patchwork Child: Early Memories". Her writing showcased her creativity and storytelling abilities, earning her recognition in the literary world.
Brooke Astor's legacy lives on through her contributions to society and her unwavering dedication to helping those in need. She will always be remembered as a compassionate and influential figure who made a lasting impact on the world around her.