The usually private Clooney family is mourning the loss of George Clooney’s older sister, Adelia “Ada” Zeidler, who passed away at 65 after a battle with cancer.
The news came on Friday, December 19, and George confirmed the heartbreaking update to People the following day.
Calling his sister “my hero,” Clooney reflected on Ada’s courage and humor throughout her illness.
He shared, “She faced down cancer with courage and humor. I’ve never met anyone so brave. Amal and I will miss her terribly.”
A Peaceful Farewell in Kentucky
According to her official obituary, Ada Zeidler passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Kentucky.
Born on May 2, 1960, in Los Angeles to parents Nina and Nick, Ada was remembered not just as George Clooney’s sister but as a talented artist and devoted family member.
Her obituary highlighted her years as an elementary art teacher at Augusta Independent School, as well as her active participation in the local art community.
She was a member of the Augusta Art Guild and even served as grand marshal for Augusta’s Annual White Christmas Parade.
Her love of learning extended to joining a local book club, and her high school accomplishments earned her the title of National Merit Scholar.
Family and Community Connections
Ada is survived by her children, Nick Zeidler and Allison Zeidler Herolaga, her husband Kenny, George Clooney and his wife Amal, and an extended network of relatives.
A funeral is scheduled for Monday, December 22, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Maysville, Kentucky.
Though Ada lived a more private life, she shared special moments supporting her famous brother.
In 2014, she attended George’s wedding to Amal in Venice, standing by his side on a boat as they cruised the canals—a picture of family closeness amidst the spotlight.
Childhood Memories in Kentucky
Growing up together in Kentucky, George and Ada were inseparable, often engaging in playful antics.
Their mother, Nina, once recounted a marshmallow war involving George, Ada, and friends that had taken over a room of their home—showing the lighthearted, close-knit environment they shared.
Ada married Norman Zeidler in 1987, and they had two children, with George proudly stepping into the role of uncle.
During the wedding, George read scripture while their famous relative, Rosemary Clooney, sang for the newlyweds—a meaningful family celebration.
George Clooney Reflects on Family and Small-Town Life
George has often spoken fondly of his close relationship with Ada.
In a 2015 interview with CBS This Morning, he recalled his bond with his niece and nephew, joking about prom king titles and the joys of family life.
Reflecting on his upbringing in a small Kentucky town, Clooney shared in 2019, “All the things we see on cable news of people being unkind to one another doesn’t exist.
They have to get along. I was really lucky to be raised in a small town like that.”
Ada Zeidler’s life may have been quieter than her Hollywood-famous brother’s, but her impact on family, students, and her community leaves a lasting legacy.
George’s tribute paints the picture of a woman who lived with courage, creativity, and love.
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