From WENN.com

The body of Mary was found at her home in Mount Kisco, New York, on Wednesday (16May12). A local medical examiner has since confirmed reports she died of asphyxiation due to hanging.

According to Kennedy, Jr., the son of assassinated politician Robert F. Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, his former partner had struggled for years to overcome her problems.

He tells The New York Times, ""A lot of times, I don't know how she made it through the day. She was in a lot of agony for a lot of her life.

""I don't think anybody who was around her didn't do everything that they could to try to help her.""

Kennedy, Jr. filed for divorce from Mary in May 2010 after 16 years of marriage. The couple had four children together.

A private memorial service is to be held in New York City.