Beloved entertainer Linda Nolan to be farewelled at ‘deeply special place’

Beloved entertainer Linda Nolan will be farewelled at a “deeply special place,” her family has shared, as they announce plans to celebrate her “extraordinary life.”

Linda sadly passed away after a long battle with cancer on Wednesday, January 15, at the age of 65, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in entertainment and an inspiring story of resilience.

Her family, taking to social media, shared the details of her funeral service, emphasising the significance of the location.

“The Nolan family invites everyone to join them in celebrating the extraordinary life of Linda Nolan, who passed away peacefully on 15th January 2025,” the family wrote.

“Linda was a beacon of light, strength and unwavering love who inspired everyone she met, in addition to millions around the world. Her absence leaves an ache in our hearts, but her legacy will live on through the joy, hope and kindness she shared so freely.

“Linda’s funeral service will take place on Saturday, 1st February 2025, at St. Paul’s Church, Honister Avenue, Blackpool, at 10:30 am.

“St. Paul’s Church holds a deeply special place in Linda’s heart. It is where she married the love of her life, Brian Hudson, with whom she shared 26 wonderful years of marriage. Brian was Linda’s rock, her soulmate, and the love of her life, just as she was his.

“When Brian tragically passed away in 2007, Linda found the strength to carry on, but her love for him never wavered. St. Paul’s was also where Linda said her final goodbye to Brian, holding his funeral in the same church where they had exchanged their vows. Now, Linda will return to this sacred place to be reunited with Brian once more, finally at peace and back in his loving embrace.

“Linda was more than a beloved sister, friend, and entertainer – she was a symbol of hope, humour and resilience.”

 

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Fan messages flooded in following the announcement, with many recalling the warmth and kindness Linda shared with those she met.

“An amazing lovely woman every time we met! Thoughts are with the family. Rest in peace,” one wrote.

“Such a beautiful & kind woman, Linda you will be dearly missed. Sending my love to all of Linda’s friends and family, Rest In Peace.”

“Beautiful words the may god hold her tight bless her back into the arms of her Brian godbless to you all,” commented another.

“RIP Linda. You will be greatly missed xx.”

Born in Dublin in 1959, Linda was one of eight children in the talented Nolan family. She found fame as a member of The Nolans, the hugely popular girl group known for hits like I’m in the Mood for Dancing. With their infectious harmonies and chart success, The Nolans became household names, touring the world and earning a devoted fan base. Linda left the group in 1983 but reunited with her sisters for various performances and a successful UK and Ireland tour in 2009.

Beyond music, Linda built a successful career in theatre. She starred as Maggie May in Blackpool for several years before taking on the role of Mrs. Johnstone in Blood Brothers in the West End and on tour. Her portrayal of the character earned her and her sisters a Guinness World Record for the most siblings to play the same role in a musical. She also appeared on popular game shows and reality TV, including Celebrity Big Brother in 2014.

Linda’s life was also marked by personal challenges. She lost her husband, Brian Hudson, in 2007 and bravely fought breast cancer after being diagnosed in 2005. Though she was declared cancer-free in 2011, the disease returned in 2017 and spread, leading to a long and courageous battle that she faced with dignity and openness, inspiring many.

She is survived by her siblings, Anne, Brian, Coleen, Maureen and Tommy.