Daniel O’Donnell, one of Ireland’s most cherished and enduring musical stars, is mourning the death of his mother, Julia O’Donnell, who has passed away at the age of 94. She died peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, May 18, at Dungloe Community Hospital in County Donegal, with her family gathered at her bedside.
The news was confirmed by the singer himself in a heartfelt statement posted to his official website under the title Rest in Peace Mam. “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 on Sunday 18th May at 3.50am,” he wrote. “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.”
O’Donnell’s wife, Majella, also expressed her grief on social media, writing: “It is with sadness that I announce the death of Daniel’s mother Julia, rest in peace.” Daniel, who was performing in Scotland earlier in the week, rushed home when his mother’s condition worsened so that he could be with her in her final days.
Julia O’Donnell was born on the small, windswept island of Owey, just off the coast of County Donegal. In her early life, she moved to Kincasslagh after marrying Francie O’Donnell. Together, they built a family of five children — John, Margaret, Kathleen, James, and Daniel, the youngest. Life changed dramatically for the family in 1968 when Francie died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 49. Daniel was only six years old at the time, and Julia was left to raise her children single-handedly.
Despite such hardship, Julia became known for her resilience, determination, and the warmth with which she raised her children. Daniel has often spoken fondly of his childhood and of the freedom his mother allowed him. “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,” he once recalled. “She wasn’t at all overprotective. I had great freedom, a terrific childhood the same as everyone else in our area. I was always in and out of neighbours’ houses when I was a child and I was full of news.”
Her role in shaping Daniel’s life extended far beyond that of a parent. While she lived much of her life out of the public eye, Julia’s unwavering support helped her son rise to fame, and she became a beloved figure to many of his fans. In interviews, Daniel has spoken of her steady influence, her love of community, and the strong values she instilled in her children.
In her later years, Julia moved in with her daughter Kathleen and her family in Kincasslagh. As her health declined, she transitioned into full-time care at Dungloe Community Hospital, where she spent her final months surrounded by devoted staff and frequent visits from family members.
Her passing marks the end of an era not only for the O’Donnell family but also for the Donegal community, where she was held in deep affection. Those who knew her speak of her quiet strength, her sense of humour, and her enduring kindness.
For Daniel, her death is a deeply personal loss, but it is also a moment to reflect on a remarkable life — one defined by love, perseverance, and the ability to find joy in the face of adversity. As tributes pour in from across Ireland and beyond, Julia O’Donnell will be remembered not just as the mother of a music legend, but as a woman who lived with grace and dignity, leaving behind a legacy of family bonds that will endure for generations.