Majella O’Donnell Plunged Into Grief After Death of Her Beloved Mother as Daniel Pays Tribute to a ‘Beautiful Person’
Majella O’Donnell has been left heartbroken following the death of her beloved mother, Marion Roche, who passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Nursing Home in Galway surrounded by her loving family. The sad news was shared by Majella’s husband, Daniel O’Donnell, who paid an emotional tribute to his late mother-in-law — describing her as “a beautiful person” and “a true lady.”
In a heartfelt message to fans, the Donegal singer 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.”
Daniel continued by expressing his deep gratitude to all those who supported Marion and the family in her final years. “The care and compassion shown to Marion and indeed her family was second to none,” he said. “Our thanks also to all the staff at Galway University Hospital for their care of Marion during her recent stay there.”
Reflecting on his relationship with Marion, Daniel shared how blessed he felt to have known 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.”
Marion Roche was deeply loved within her community and by everyone who had the privilege of meeting her. Known for her gentle nature, her kindness, and her unwavering love for her family, she played a central role in Majella’s life — a source of strength and warmth who always stood quietly behind her daughter’s success and happiness.
This loss is especially poignant for Majella, who also lost her father, Tom Roche, in 2013 in Tenerife. Tom and Marion were well known for running a popular bar on the sun-kissed island — the very place where fate would bring Daniel and Majella together for the first time. It was in that family bar, years ago, that Daniel met the woman who would become his wife and lifelong partner — a story that has since become part of their cherished history.
Friends and fans across Ireland and beyond have flooded social media with messages of sympathy and love for the O’Donnell and Roche families. One fan wrote, “Marion was such a kind soul — she raised a wonderful daughter, and her spirit will live on in Majella’s warmth and grace.” Another commented, “Daniel and Majella have shared so much of their hearts with us through the years. Now it’s our turn to send them all the love and strength in the world.”
As the O’Donnell family gathers in Galway to say their final goodbyes, Daniel’s quiet words seem to capture the sentiment felt by many: “She was a light in our lives — gentle, generous, and full of love. Heaven has gained a lady.”
Marion Roche will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her kindness. But her legacy — of love, laughter, and family devotion — will live on through Majella, Daniel, and everyone whose lives she graced.
May she rest in eternal peace.