Dorthy Moxley, the mother of Martha Moxley, a victim of a decades-old murder case that captured national attention, has died at the age of 92. Her passing, which occurred on December 26, 2024, was confirmed by family members who shared that she had been ill for some time. Dorthy Moxley became a public figure in the wake of her daughter’s tragic death in 1975, which led to a high-profile investigation that implicated various individuals, including members of the Kennedy family. Dorthy dedicated her life to seeking justice for Martha, often expressing her belief that the truth about her daughter’s murder had yet to be revealed.
In a heartfelt statement, her son, John Moxley, reflected on their mother’s unwavering strength: “She was not only our mom but a fighter who took on the world with her determination to get justice for Martha. Her spirit will always be with us.” After many years of pursuing materials related to her daughter’s case, Dorthy’s relentless efforts bore some results as her daughter’s alleged killer, Michael Skakel, was convicted of murder in 2002, though he was later granted a new trial.
Dorthy Moxley is survived by her three children: John, who is an attorney, as well as David and a daughter, and several grandchildren. The Moxley case has been explored in various documentaries and has been a significant part of discussions surrounding unsolved murders in America. Dorthy’s legacy will be remembered not just for her grief, but for her tenacious search for closure and justice, a journey that has taken nearly fifty years. The funeral services will be held privately, with a public memorial expected to be planned later.
