In January 2026, the life of Philippe Junot—a man whose destiny was intertwined with the world of business and society columns—came to an end in Madrid. He was 85 years old. His passing was not only a moment of grief for his family and friends, but also for those who had followed his life for decades. Junot was a descendant of the famous Jean-Andoche Junot and the son of Michel Junot, a lineage that shaped his place in both history and society.
In the 1970s, Philippe Junot’s name made headlines across Europe, thanks to his marriage to Caroline of Monaco. He later started a new family with Nina Wendelboe-Larsen, becoming the father of three children: Victoria, Alexis, and Isabelle. Later, Chloe joined the family, born from another relationship. In his final years, Junot lived in the Spanish capital, surrounded by the care and attention of his loved ones.
Family support
After Philippe’s passing, his daughters chose a special way to say goodbye—they shared personal messages on social media. Their words became not only an expression of grief, but also a bridge between the family’s past and future. One message stood out in particular: a note from his youngest daughter, Isabelle Junot, now 34 years old.
In her message to her father, she began with a heartfelt phrase in French, which she translated for everyone: “Dear Papa. What a life you lived and what a life you gave us. What a family you created. What an example you set as a father. We were together until the very end. Thank you for your unconditional love.”
Isabel emphasized that her father passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and love. She recalled how he filled their days with adventure, and how his infectious laughter and optimism stayed with them until the very end. “There are no words to describe the emptiness you left behind and how much we will miss you,” she admitted. Yet, despite the pain of loss, Isabel promised to keep enjoying life and to laugh, just as her father taught her.
Memory and legacy
At the end of her letter, Isabel once again addressed her father in French and English: “What happiness it was to have you all these years. How lucky I am to be your daughter. Farewell. Until we meet again.” She attached family photographs filled with warmth and memories.
The eldest daughter, Victoria, was the first to announce her father’s death by publishing her own letter. In it, she wrote: “It is with a broken heart that I share the passing of my father. He left this world peacefully, surrounded by family on January 8, 2026, in Madrid, after a long and fulfilling life.” Victoria thanked her father for the laughter, adventures, and love he gave the children and promised that the family would continue to live life to the fullest, as he always wanted.
Family values
The story of the Junot family is not just a chronicle of social events, but a testament to how personal relationships and support become a foundation during difficult times. The daughters’ letters are more than farewell words—they reflect deep respect and gratitude. They show that even after a loved one is gone, their influence and lessons continue to live on in the hearts of their family.
In Spain, where family traditions and respect for elders hold a special place, such stories resonate with many. The farewell to Philippe Junot became not only a personal tragedy but also a reminder of the importance of family ties that endure even after death.
RUSSPAIN reminds us that Philippe Junot was known not only as an entrepreneur and member of an aristocratic dynasty, but also as a person who left a significant mark on European high society. His name was linked with high-profile events and famous personalities, and his descendants continue the family traditions, preserving his memory in their hearts and actions.
