Marcie Jones—an Australian music legend known for being the lead singer of Marcie & The Cookies before embarking on a solo career—is dead at 79 after a private cancer battle.
On Friday, May 31, Jones died after recently revealing she was diagnosed with leukemia, Rolling Stone Australia reported.
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Her daughter-in-law, Lisa Asta, confirmed the news on Facebook on June 1.
“It’s with great sadness to let you all know that my beautiful mother-in-law, Marcie Jones, passed away yesterday evening,” Asta revealed. “I feel numb inside. Marc, never again will there be our little outbursts of song and dance. You made me laugh so hard and always gave me great advice.”
The bereaved family member continued, “You were a legend, an icon, and you will always be remembered. You always said that we were so alike in many ways, and that’s why I know you will always be my guiding light. I will miss you so much. I love you. Until we meet again to sing another song.”
On May 27, Jones announced her health struggle via social media, according to the Herald Sun.
“Sorry to start the day with rotten news,” the singer shared. “I am in hospital with leukemia, starting treatment soon. We are all feeling very scared but I’ll fight as hard as I can.”
Jones formed the all-girl group Marcie and the Cookies with the Cook sisters, Beverley, Margaret and Wendy in 1967.
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In the wake of her death, the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) posted a tribute to Jones on Instagram.
“As the powerhouse voice behind Marcie and the Cookies, Marcie helped pave the way for women in a male-dominated industry, breaking new ground in the 1960s and touring internationally with her signature sound,” ARIA wrote in part.
It added, “From The Go!! Show to global stages alongside The Monkees, The Seekers, Cliff Richard and Tom Jones, Marcie’s impact on Australian music history is undeniable.”
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