Madonna struck by family tragedy
Madonna is in mourning after the death of her eldest brother.
Anthony Ciccone, aged 66, passed away on Saturday according to reports by Page Six.
“Most family members had a difficult relationship with him due to his disease [with alcohol],” a source told the publication.
“Madonna helped to support her brother when he would accept that support. During his final months he was in contact with family and Madonna, but this past week he refused the support the rehab facility offered and it was clear he was ready to move on,” the insider added.
The sad news was also confirmed on Instagram by musician Joe Henry, who is married to Madonna’s sister Melanie Ciccone.
“My brother-in-law, Anthony Gerard Ciccone, exited this earthly plane last evening. I’ve known him since I was 15, in the spring of our lives in Michigan so many years now gone,” he wrote.
“As brother Dave Henry (who took this photograph) notes here, Anthony was a complex character; and god knows: we tangled in moments, as true brothers can. But I loved him, and understood him better than I was sometimes willing to let on."
Henry added that while “trouble fades,” family remains – with “hands reached” across the table.
“Farewell, then, brother Anthony. I want to think the god your blessed mother (and mine) believed in has her there, waiting to receive you,” he continued. “At least for today, no one shall dissuade me from this vision.”
Madonna, who is one of eight children, grew up in Michigan, where her older brother was believed to have been living when he died.
Image credits: Getty Images