MAJELLA O’DONNELL PLUNGED INTO GRIEF AFTER DEATH OF HER BELOVED MOTHER — DANIEL PAYS TRIBUTE TO A “BEAUTIFUL PERSON”
Majella O’Donnell has been left heartbroken following the passing of her beloved mother, Marion Roche, who died peacefully at St. Mary’s Nursing Home in Galway, surrounded by her family. The devastating news was shared by Majella’s husband, Daniel O’Donnell, who paid a moving tribute to the woman he described as “a beautiful person” and “a true lady.”
In a heartfelt message to fans, Daniel wrote:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Majella’s mother, Marion. Marion died last night surrounded by her family in St. Mary’s Nursing Home in Galway. We will be forever grateful to the wonderful staff of St. Mary’s for the great care Marion received since going to live there, and especially in her final days.”
He continued with deep gratitude:
“The care and compassion shown to Marion, and indeed to her family, was second to none. Our thanks also to all the staff at Galway University Hospital for their care of Marion during her recent stay there.”
Daniel’s words reflected not only the sorrow of loss but also the deep appreciation for those who had shown kindness during Marion’s final chapter. The beloved Donegal singer described how blessed he felt to have known and loved his mother-in-law, a woman who, by all accounts, was cherished by everyone who met her.
“Marion was a beautiful person. Many who met her often referred to her as ‘A Lady.’ I was blessed to have her as my mother-in-law. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends. May she rest in peace.”
For Majella, Marion’s death marks a heartbreaking loss. The bond between mother and daughter had always been strong — one built on love, faith, and resilience. Those close to Majella say her mother’s kindness and strength shaped her life in countless ways, both personally and professionally. Marion had often been seen supporting her daughter at family gatherings and public events, her presence gentle but deeply felt.
This loss comes more than a decade after the passing of Majella’s father, Tom Roche, who died in 2013 in Tenerife. It was Tom and Marion who first introduced Daniel to Majella many years ago in their family bar on the sun-soaked island — a meeting that would go on to change both their lives forever. Daniel has often spoken of that fateful night with affection, crediting Marion and Tom for bringing them together.
Friends of the O’Donnell family have expressed their condolences, describing Marion as “a gracious, kind, and deeply loved woman.” Many fans have taken to social media to share their sympathies with Majella and Daniel, recalling moments when Marion appeared alongside them at family celebrations and how warmly she treated everyone she met.
Marion Roche will be remembered not only as a devoted mother and grandmother but as a woman whose warmth, dignity, and compassion touched countless hearts. Her memory will live on in the family she loved, the kindness she showed, and in the music and faith that her daughter and son-in-law continue to share with the world.
As Daniel poignantly said, “We will miss her dearly, but we take comfort in knowing that her love and grace will stay with us always.”
May Marion Roche rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved husband Tom, and may her light continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved her most.