In a heartfelt remembrance, RoseMarie Terenzio reflects on the life of her late friend Lauren Bessette, emphasising the vibrant spirit she embodied even amidst her demanding career in investment banking. Speaking to PEOPLE, Terenzio recounts her memories of Lauren as a “fun single girl in New York City,” a stark contrast to the serious persona often associated with her professional life.
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Lauren Bessette, the elder sister of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and sister-in-law to John F. Kennedy Jr., was carving out a new chapter in life when tragedy struck in July 1999. Just a year after returning from four years working in Hong Kong, where she had risen to the position of principal at Morgan Stanley, she lost her life in a plane crash alongside her sister and JFK Jr. Terenzio, who had been close friends with both Bessette sisters, expresses her lingering sorrow: “I wish there was more time.”
The bond Terenzio shared with Lauren was cultivated through her friendship with Carolyn, who had introduced the two. Despite her untimely death, Terenzio fondly recalls Lauren’s terrific personality, describing her as “amazing, fun, funny, and really smart.” Their friendship was blossoming when it was tragically cut short.
In the wake of Lauren’s passing, veteran BBC correspondent Fergal Keane remembered her as a woman of formidable intellect and vibrant energy. He first met her while living in China, where Lauren’s fluency in Mandarin impressed him as she adeptly haggled at an antiques market. Keane reminisced about their lengthy debates on Asian politics, signifying the depth of Lauren’s insight and passion for discussion.
Having returned to New York in early 1998, Lauren settled into an apartment near her sister Carolyn and JFK Jr.’s Tribeca loft. She fully embraced the cultural scene of the city, often trying new cuisine in the East Village and attending ballet and opera at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Her sociable nature saw her partake in various events, from galas at the Metropolitan Museum of Art to lively outings in the Hamptons.
Chip Arndt, a colleague of Lauren’s both in Hong Kong and New York, shared with Town & Country how they frequently enjoyed evenings out, from clubbing at Webster Hall to dining at Cowgirl in the West Village, a preferred haunt. Arndt fondly described Lauren’s punctuality and cheerful attitude, stating, “If I weren’t gay, I would have married her,” highlighting her warm and endearing character.
Another friend, Adam Clammer, spoke highly of Lauren’s generous spirit, noting, “She had time for everybody.” This compassionate nature extended especially to her sister Carolyn, with whom she shared a strong bond. Lauren’s twin, Lisa Bessette, was occupied with a Ph.D. in medieval art history in Munich during this time, but Lauren remained a steadfast support for Carolyn.
Terenzio revealed that John F. Kennedy Jr. regarded Lauren as a trusted figure within their circle, appreciating her level-headedness in helping navigate his relationship with Carolyn. Terenzio remarked, “John had a lot of respect for Lauren… he felt like Lauren had really good insights.” While serious when it mattered, Lauren’s light-hearted approach to life shone through during her leisure time, where Terenzio recalls, “She wasn’t being an ‘executive,’ she was being, like, a fun single girl in New York City.”
Terenzio fondly remembers the times they shared together, often dining out or meeting with friends, even when Carolyn wasn’t present. One particular memory stands out: Lauren’s preferred drink, vodka on the rocks adorned with olives, became a cherished reminder of her friend. As Terenzio continues to enjoy this drink, she refers to it as her “little homage and cheers to Lauren,” reinforcing the lasting impression Lauren left on those around her.
The narrative of Lauren Bessette is one marked by brilliance, joy, and unfortunately, a tragic end. Her legacy continues through the fond memories shared by friends and family, illustrating the profound impact she had during her brief time among them.