Coleen Nolan has expressed heartbreak over the loss of her sister Linda Nolan, describing her as a “beacon of love, kindness, and strength.”
Linda, a member of the Irish family group The Nolans alongside her sisters Coleen, Maureen, Bernie, Denise, and Anne, passed away peacefully at the age of 65, surrounded by family.
Linda had battled breast cancer since her diagnosis in 2005. She was initially given the all-clear in 2011, but the cancer returned as secondary breast cancer in 2017. By 2020, it had spread further, and in 2023, it affected her brain.
Coleen took to Instagram and wrote: “I am utterly devastated by the passing of my sister, Linda. Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humour and laughter was infectious, her presence could light up any room. Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her.
“Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched, and while we will miss her more than words can express, we take solace in the love and warmth she shared with all of us. Rest in peace, Linda. You will forever be in our hearts.”
Celebrities Myleene Klass, Jake Quickenden and Jo O’Meara all sent their support to Coleen and family following their loss. Nolans manager Dermot McNamara said it was “with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan”.
He added in a statement: “Over the weekend, Linda was taken by ambulance to Blackpool Victoria Hospital and admitted with double pneumonia.
“In the early hours of Tuesday morning, she went into a coma and into end-of-life care, surrounded by her devoted family.
“At around 10.20am on Wednesday, she passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments, aged 65.
“Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others.”
The Nolans were an Irish family girl group that achieved significant popularity, particularly in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Originating from Dublin, Ireland, the family relocated to Blackpool, England, in 1962. The group initially performed as The Singing Nolans before becoming The Nolan Sisters in 1974 and later simply The Nolans in 1980.
They gained fame with hits like “I’m in the Mood for Dancing,” “Gotta Pull Myself Together,” and “Don’t Make Waves.” Their success extended internationally, notably in Japan, where they became the first European act to win the Tokyo Music Festival with “Sexy Music” in 1981.
Over the years, the group underwent several lineup changes and pursued individual careers, but they occasionally reunited for special performances and tours.
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