Madonna's eldest sibling, Anthony Ciccone, passes away at 66 - family


Madonna (Facebook)

Madonna's older brother, Anthony Ciccone, passed away last Friday night. He was 66.

The sad news was announced by musician Joe Henry, who is married to Madonna's sister Melanie Ciccone, on Instagram last Sunday, Feb. 26.

No details were given about his death. Public records showed that singer's brother was most recently living in Michigan where he and other siblings grew up.

Madonna liked the Instagram post. However, the "Frozen" singer has yet to make a comment.

Joe's full post:

(Facebook)

"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.

"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. But trouble fades; and 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. At least for today, no one shall dissuade me from this vision," he wrote.

It was reported that Madonna's brother had spent some time living on the streets and at a rehabilitation facility.