Sherrill Redmon: Life, Career, Divorce, and Net Worth of Mitch McConnell’s Ex-Wife

Sherrill Redmon is widely recognized as Mitch McConnell’s first wife. However, her identity extends far beyond this association. Sherrill Redmon is a retired feminist activist and scholar who has significantly contributed to women’s rights and empowerment. This article delves into the details of her career, personal life, and impact on feminist activism.

Profile Summary

Sherrill Redmon’s Early Life

Sherrill Lynn Redmon was born on February 6, 1943, in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. Her parents, Doris and Charles Redmon, were involved in politics. Sherrill grew up with three siblings: Walter, David, and Lee Ann Redmon. Her upbringing in a politically active family laid the foundation for her future endeavors in activism and academia.

Sherrill attended Seneca High School in Louisville, Kentucky. She later pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Louisville. Her academic journey continued at the University of Kentucky, where she earned a Ph.D. in American History in 1974. Her education was crucial in shaping her feminist ideas and scholarly pursuits.

How Old is Sherrill Redmon?

Sherrill Redmon was born on February 6, 1943, in Louisville, Kentucky, USA; she is 81 years old as of 2024. Her zodiac sign is Aquarius. She is of American nationality and white ethnicity.

Sherrill Redmon stands at a height of 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 meters) and weighs approximately 70 kg (154 lbs). Her brown eyes and grey hair are distinguished by her physical appearance, complementing her poised demeanor.

Marriage to Mitch McConnell

Sherrill Redmon and Mitch McConnell met in 1962 while studying at the University of Louisville. They married in 1968 and had three daughters: Elly, Claire, and Porter. Their marriage lasted for 12 years before they decided to divorce in 1980. Despite the end of their marriage, Sherrill’s journey was beginning.

The divorce marked a turning point in Sherrill’s life. She moved to Northampton, Massachusetts, and joined Smith College as a feminist scholar. This new phase allowed her to focus on her career and contribute significantly to women’s history and activism.

Career Achievements

In 1993, Sherrill became the director of the Sophia Smith Collection of the Women’s History Archives at Smith College. She held this position for 19 years, during which she expanded the collection to include more racially and culturally diverse materials. Her work made the Sophia Smith Collection an internationally renowned repository for women’s history. Sherrill also collaborated with journalist and feminist Gloria Steinem on the Voices of Feminism Oral History Project, further cementing her legacy in the feminist movement.

Sherrill’s activism extended beyond academia. She actively participated in the Take On Wall Street campaign, comprising over 20 labor unions and activist groups. The campaign advocates for reforms in the American financial industry, targeting the economic power of banks and billionaires. Sherrill’s involvement in such initiatives highlights her commitment to social justice and equality.

Sherrill Redmon’s Personal Life

Sherrill Redmon resides in Whately, Massachusetts, where she leads a quiet life away from the public eye. She shares her home with her cats, Nick and Nell. Despite her low profile, Sherrill inspires many through her past achievements and ongoing advocacy efforts.

Sherrill and Mitch McConnell have three daughters: Elly, Claire, and Porter. Elly, the eldest, is an environmentalist. Claire taught at the Hawthorne Valley School in New York in 2003. Porter, the youngest, is a feminist, activist, and politician, and she currently directs the Take On Wall Street campaign. Sherrill’s relationship with her daughters reflects her influence on their careers and commitment to social causes.

Sherrill Redmon’s Net Worth

Sherrill Redmon’s net worth is estimated at $2 million as of 2024. Her financial success is largely attributed to her long tenure as the director of the Sophia Smith Collection at Smith College, where she significantly contributed to the field of women’s history.

Her ex-husband, Mitch McConnell, has a net worth of $35 million, accumulated through his extensive career in politics and public service. Sherrill’s modest earnings reflect her dedication to academia and activism rather than political pursuits.

Final Thoughts

Sherrill Redmon’s life is a testament to the power of education, activism, and resilience. From her early years in Kentucky to her influential career at Smith College, Sherrill has made significant strides in advancing women’s rights and preserving their histories. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower those who seek to make a difference in the world.

(FAQs)

Who is Sherrill Redmon?

Sherrill Redmon is a retired feminist scholar and activist, best known as the first wife of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell. She served as the director of the Sophia Smith Collection at Smith College.

How is Sherrill Redmon connected to Mitch McConnell?

Sherrill Redmon was married to Mitch McConnell from 1968 to 1980. They met while attending the University of Louisville and have three daughters together.

What are Sherrill Redmon’s notable contributions to feminism?

Sherrill Redmon significantly enriched the Sophia Smith Collection, making it an international resource for women’s history, and collaborated on the Voices of Feminism Oral History Project with Gloria Steinem.

What is Sherrill Redmon’s net worth?

As of 2024, Sherrill Redmon’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, primarily earned through her academic and directorial roles at Smith College.

Where does Sherrill Redmon live?

Sherrill Redmon resides in Whately, Massachusetts, where she leads a private life, focusing on her interests and personal projects.