Linda Nolan’s family and friends gathered to pay their respects at a heartfelt funeral service celebrating her remarkable life. The Dublin-born singer and member of the iconic pop group The Nolans passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 65, at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, surrounded by her loving siblings. Her sisters Anne, Denise, Maureen, and Coleen provided devastating tributes during the service, which took place at St. Paul’s Church in Blackpool, Lancashire, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 10:30 AM.
Members of the public were also invited to honor her memory, lining the streets to applaud as the hearse carrying her pink glittery coffin arrived at the church, which held special significance as the place where she married her late husband, Brian Hudson, and bid farewell to him after he passed away in 2007.
Upon arrival, the family, dressed predominantly in black but adorned with pink ribbons and accessories, escorted the coffin adorned with floral arrangements. The atmosphere was one of love and remembrance, as Coleen wiped away tears, echoing the family's sentiment of loss and the exuberance Linda brought to their lives.
During the service, sister Denise delivered poignant remarks, describing Linda’s zest for life and the adversities she faced, including her battle with cancer. "She really loved going to premieres and opening nights, having her beautiful hair and make-up done, and always was the life and soul of any big occasion," Denise said, adding, "She would have loved all the fuss today." The eulogy reflected not only on her struggles but also on her remarkable courage, stating, "It’s time to rest now Linda. The battle is over. You are free." Following the emotional tribute, the congregation listened to recordings of Linda singing, including the heartfelt piece "When It’s Over," alongside hymns sung by attendees.
The church service was attended by notable figures from the entertainment world, including EastEnders’ Shane Richie, comedian Tommy Cannon, and singer Lisa Maffia. Many shared their memories of Linda, highlighting her joyous spirit and contributions to charity. Paul Elliott, known for his role as Paul Chuckle, recalled their collaboration during various performances, stating, "She was just a fun, bubbly person. The world’s a darker place without her. She was just a wonderful person, we always got on well."
Linda Nolan, who rose to fame with her sisters through their chart-topping hits such as "Gotta Pull Myself Together" and "I’m in the Mood for Dancing," was also recognized for her significant work as a campaigner and fundraiser for cancer awareness. Diagnosed with breast cancer first in 2005 and having fought valiantly through the years, she later faced the return of the disease, eventually succumbing to complications from pneumonia last month.
Prior to her passing, Linda had taken the initiative to arrange her own funeral to ease the burden on her family. She crafted her services with thoughtful detail, including the selection of her dazzling coffin. Her sister Anne mentioned on Instagram: "We lay our wonderful sister Linda to rest this weekend," and noted the welcome extended to everyone wishing to mourn Linda’s passing. Anne elaborated, saying there had been some confusion surrounding attendance and seating arrangements, emphasizing all were welcome, even if it meant standing.
"Everyone who knew Linda, or whose lives she touched, are welcome to come and pay their respects as we celebrate her remarkable life," the official message on The Nolans’ social media reflected, portraying her as a beloved sister and devoted friend.
During the service, members of the community also expressed their condolences through donations to the Trinity Hospice, which Linda had supported throughout her life. The family had set up a memorial page, which has seen contributions exceeding £2,700, with the funds aiding future care facilities for those battling cancer.
The celebration of Linda’s life didn’t just center on grief; it also conveyed the love and resilience she embodied. Amidst the sorrow, speakers recalled her positive attitude and the light she brought to those around her. Maffia expressed her admiration, saying, "Linda faced it for so long and what got her through it was loving the life she was Given,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining positivity even through dark times.
Linda’s extensive legacy includes not only her musical career and television appearances, such as her time on Celebrity Big Brother but also her philanthropic efforts, raising over £20 million for cancer charities globally, including Breast Cancer Now and the Irish Cancer Society.
Her family's heartfelt tributes and poignant memories shared during the service encapsulated Linda Nolan's spirit, her battles, and the outpouring of love surrounding her was evident, creating an atmosphere of both mourning and celebration. Linda's life, marked by both joy and hardship, reminded all present of the power of laughter, love, and hope, leaving them with treasured memories to keep her spirit alive.