Daniel O’Donnell Announces the Passing of His Mother, Julia, at 94
With heavy hearts, singer Daniel O’Donnell and his family have announced the passing of his beloved mother, Julia, at the age of 94. Julia O’Donnell passed away peacefully at 3:50 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, surrounded by her family at Dungloe Hospital, where they had kept a bedside vigil.
In a heartfelt statement, Daniel expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “It is with great sadness that we have to announce that our dear mother Julia passed away peacefully in the loving care of the staff of Dungloe Hospital, surrounded by all her family.” He further added, “My siblings John, Margaret, Kathleen, James, and myself would like to thank you all for the kindness you have shown to her down through the years. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
Daniel’s wife, Majella, also shared the sad news on social media, posting, “It is with sadness that I announce the death of Daniel’s mother Julia, rest in peace.”
Julia O’Donnell, a native of the small island of Owey in County Donegal, was a remarkable woman who lived a life of strength and dedication. She married Francie O’Donnell, and together they had five children, the youngest of whom was Daniel. Tragically, in 1968, Julia was widowed when her husband passed away from a heart attack at the age of 49, leaving her to raise their five children on her own.
Daniel has often spoken fondly of his mother, recalling how she never hovered over him as a child. “I suspect people have the impression that my mother kept me hanging on to her apron strings when I was a kid, but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” Daniel shared. “She wasn’t at all overprotective. I had great freedom, a terrific childhood, just like everyone else in our area. I was always in and out of neighbors’ houses when I was a child and I was full of news.”
In her later years, Julia moved in with her daughter Kathleen and her family in Kincasslagh, before transitioning into nursing home care in Dungloe, where she spent her final days.As the O’Donnell family mourns the loss of a beloved mother and grandmother, their memories of Julia’s kindness and resilience will remain a source of strength for them. The family has expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received during this difficult time.Our thoughts are with Daniel O’Donnell, his family, and all those who knew and loved Julia as they honor her memory. May she rest in peace.