HEARTBREAK FOR MAJELLA O’DONNELL AS HER FATHER TOM ROCHE DIES AFTER BRAIN HAEMORRHAGE
The Irish entertainment world has been united in sorrow following the devastating news that Tom Roche, beloved father of Majella O’Donnell and father-in-law of Daniel O’Donnell, has passed away after suffering a sudden brain haemorrhage. His death has sent shockwaves through family, friends, and fans alike, leaving a deep sense of loss that extends far beyond those who knew him personally.
Tom Roche, originally from County Tipperary, died peacefully in hospital in Tenerife, Spain, on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m., surrounded by his loving family. The tragedy unfolded rapidly and without warning. Just days earlier, Tom had fallen down the stairs at his home, prompting an emergency hospital admission. Doctors later confirmed he had sustained severe head injuries, and despite receiving urgent medical care, his condition worsened over the following days.
As word spread of his critical condition, members of the Roche family gathered at his bedside, holding vigil and offering prayers during his final hours. A statement later released on Daniel O’Donnell’s official website confirmed the heartbreaking news, describing Tom Roche as a devoted husband, father, and family man whose loss would be felt deeply by all who loved him.
Majella O’Donnell, who was by her father’s side throughout his final days, has been left utterly heartbroken. Friends close to the family say she was exceptionally close to both her parents, sharing a bond built on love, faith, and unwavering support. Those who know her describe this loss as particularly cruel, given Majella’s own well-documented battle with breast cancer, a journey she faced with openness, resilience, and courage.
A family friend spoke movingly about the impact of Tom’s death, saying Majella is “completely devastated” and struggling to process the sudden loss. “Tom was the kind of man who made everyone feel welcome,” the friend said. “He was gentle, kind, and deeply loved. His passing has left a huge void in the family.”
Tom Roche was widely known and respected both in Ireland and in Tenerife, where he and his wife Marion Roche ran a popular family bar. That bar held special significance, not only as a gathering place for locals and visitors, but as the setting where Daniel O’Donnell first met Majella in 1999. What began as a chance meeting in a warm, welcoming environment grew into a lifelong partnership — a love story that fans have cherished for years.
Upon learning of his father-in-law’s condition, Daniel O’Donnell immediately cancelled several dates on his UK tour, choosing instead to stand beside his wife and her family during their darkest hours. Those close to Daniel say he has been deeply affected by the loss and is fully focused on supporting Majella, Marion, and the wider Roche family as they navigate their grief.
News of Tom Roche’s passing prompted an outpouring of sympathy from fans across Ireland, the United Kingdom, and beyond. Social media was flooded with messages remembering Tom as “a true gentleman,” with many recalling encounters at his Tenerife bar, where his warmth, humor, and kindness left lasting impressions. For many, he was not just Majella’s father, but a familiar and friendly face who embodied generosity and quiet strength.
The O’Donnell and Roche families have respectfully requested privacy as they mourn and make funeral arrangements. A service will be held in Tenerife before Tom’s remains are returned to County Tipperary, where he will be laid to rest in his homeland, surrounded by the memories of a life well lived.
For Majella O’Donnell, this loss represents an unimaginable sorrow — the passing of a father she deeply admired and adored. Yet friends say that the strength, faith, and kindness Tom instilled in her continue to guide her through this painful chapter. “He was her hero,” one longtime friend said. “Everything good in her reflects what he taught her.”
As the family prepares to say their final goodbyes, countless fans and friends have united in prayer and remembrance — honoring Tom Roche, a much-loved husband, father, and friend, and standing in solidarity with the daughter he leaves behind.
May Tom Roche rest in peace.