Madonna’s family is deeply saddened by the passing of her stepmother, Joan Ciccone.
According to the obituary for the «Like a Virgin» singer, Joan Ciccone passed away on Tuesday after a long and brave battle with an aggressive form of cancer.
During Madonna’s childhood in Michigan, Joan worked as the family’s housekeeper. After Madonna’s mother tragically died from cancer at the age of 30, Joan went on to marry Madonna’s father, Silvio Ciccone, a few years later.
Together, Joan and Silvio had two children: Jennifer, Madonna’s half-sister, and Mario, Madonna’s half-brother.
Joan made appearances in a few documentaries about Madonna, including «I’m Going to Tell You a Secret» and an episode of the television series «Biography.»
Like Madonna, Joan was born and raised in Michigan. While raising a large family with Silvio, she established and operated a daycare for two decades.
Additionally, Joan and Madonna’s father started Ciccone Vineyard and Winery in Michigan, where they built their wine business from the ground up. Joan took on many roles there, from planting the vines and harvesting grapes to preparing food for events at the tasting room. She also had a passion for antiques and fashion.
Joan’s family fondly remembers her for the “enthusiasm, joy, and love” she brought into their lives.
