Anthony Ciccone, Madonna ’s older brother, has died at 66 years of age. No cause of death has been announced, but reports say his health had been declining in recent months.
His Brother-In-Law Shared The News
The news was first confirmed by Anthony’s brother-in-law, musician Joe Henry, who is married to his and Madonna’s sister, Melanie.
RELATED STORIES
It Was Announced On Instagram
Joe announced his passing on Saturday in an Instagram post.
What The Post Said
Alongside his photo, Joe wrote, “My brother-in-law, Anthony Gerard Ciccone, exited this earthly plane last evening.”
They Knew Each Other For A Long Time
“I’ve known him since I was 15, in the spring of our lives in Michigan so many years now gone,” he continued.
‘Complex Character’
Joe described his brother-in-law as a “complex character.”
Brotherly Love
He admitted that they didn’t always get along, but that he loved him.
‘Understood Him’
“I loved him, and understood him better than I was sometimes willing to let on,” he added.
‘Family Remains’
But whatever trouble there was, Joe said, “[F]amily remains— with hands reached across the table.”
Saying Goodbye
The musician concluded his post by saying goodbye to his brother-in-law.
‘Farewell…Brother Anthony’
“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 wrote. “At least for today, no one shall dissuade me from this vision.”
The Oldest Sibling
Anthony was Madonna’s oldest brother and one of eight siblings.
He Grew Up In Michigan
He and Madonna grew up in Michigan. It was believed he was still residing there at the time of his death.
How Was Their Relationship?
According to reports, relationships among the siblings were strained.
He Had Alcohol Issues
“Most family members had a difficult relationship with him due to his disease [with alcohol],” a source told Page Six .
He Struggled With It For Years
Anthony had reportedly struggled with alcoholism for years.
He Had Been Homeless
He had also been homeless and was living under a bridge at one point, reports said.
Madonna Was Supportive
However, Madonna tried to support her brother “when he would accept that support,” according to the insider.
They Were In Touch
In recent months, family members were reportedly in touch with Anthony.
‘Ready To Move On’
“[B]ut this past week, he refused the support the rehab facility offered, and it was clear he was ready to move on,” the source added.
