On February 1, 2025, in the quiet grandeur of St. Paul’s Church in Blackpool, mourners gathered to say goodbye to Linda Nolan—singer, actress, and an indomitable spirit who spent her life in the limelight. The setting was poignant: it was in this church that she had once exchanged vows with Brian Hudson, her husband of twenty-seven years. Now, in a final act of devotion, her ashes were interred alongside his, a fitting reunion after nearly two decades apart.
The Irish singer was a pivotal member of The Nolans, the all-sister pop group that gave the world the irresistible 1979 hit, ‘I’m in the Mood for Dancing.’ She performed alongside her sisters—Anne, Denise, Maureen, Bernie, and Coleen. She passed away on January 15, 2025 in Blackpool, surrounded by friends and family.
Over the years, the Nolan sisters pursued their own paths. Coleen became a well-known television personality as a panelist on Loose Women, Maureen built a career in musical theatre, Denise continued performing as a singer, Bernie died of Breast Cancer, and Anne stepped away from the spotlight. Linda’s career extended beyond her time with The Nolans. She made her mark in musical theatre, starring in productions such as Blood Brothers, Pump Boys and Dinettes, and Prisoner Cell Block H – The Musical, where she performed alongside the late Paul O’Grady. In 2014, she introduced herself to a new generation of audiences as a contestant on Celebrity Big Brother, where her sharp wit and candid personality shone.
The funeral service was intimate, yet carried elements of spectacle fitting for a woman who spent her life in entertainment. Linda was laid to rest in a pink, glittery coffin—an unmistakable nod to her vibrant personality. Among the mourners was comedian Paul Elliott, better known as Paul Chuckle, reflecting Linda’s deep ties to British show business. Actor Shane Richie was also present, paying his respects.
Linda Nolan’s funeral features pink sparkly coffin as sisters lead mourners https://t.co/0BIRL5LAGX
— Irish Independent (@Independent_ie) February 1, 2025
Denise Nolan-Anderson delivered an emotional eulogy, recalling Linda’s love for the spotlight. “She really loved going to premieres and opening nights, having her beautiful picture taken,” she said, capturing Linda’s lifelong embrace of show business. But behind the glamour was a woman of immense strength, who spent two decades battling breast cancer before ultimately succumbing to double pneumonia. “It’s time to rest now, Linda,” Denise concluded. “The battle is over, you are free.” At the funeral all of Nolan’s sisters wore black but accessorised with pink handbags – a nod to both their sister’s love for the colour and her battle against breast cancer. She dedicated much of the last 20 years of her life to raising money for Breast Cancer related charities.
Even in farewell, Linda’s humour shone through. She chose Frank Sinatra’s ‘Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone’—a nod to The Nolans’ time supporting him on tour—leaving mourners laughing as the service concluded. As the final goodbyes were said, it was clear that Linda Nolan’s legacy was one of resilience, talent, and an enduring love for the stage.
