Australian music legend Marcie Jones passed away on Saturday at the age of 79, only days after receiving a leukemia diagnosis.
A trailblazer in the 1960s music scene, Marcie was the dynamic frontwoman of Marcie and the Cookies, one of Australia’s first all-female ‘girl groups’ at a time when the industry was dominated by male rock bands. The group quickly became one of the country’s most beloved touring acts, even supporting The Monkees during their 1968 Australian tour.
The heartbreaking news was shared by her daughter-in-law, Lisa, on social media.
“It’s with great sadness I share that my beautiful mother-in-law, Marcie Jones, has passed away. I feel numb inside,” she wrote.
“You were a legend, an icon, and you will always be remembered. You will forever be my guiding light. I will miss you deeply. I love you. Until we meet again to sing another song!”
After Marcie and the Cookies disbanded in the early ’70s, Marcie launched a successful solo career with several charting hits in Australia. Her biggest hit, Gonna Get Married (1974), climbed to number 37 on the charts and became a beloved classic. She also made memorable appearances on popular TV shows like Bandstand and The Graham Kennedy Show.
Throughout her illustrious career, Marcie shared the stage with international greats such as Cliff Richard, Tom Jones, and Roy Orbison. Remarkably, she continued performing locally up until her final days.
Fans paid tribute to her warmth and talent:
“Marcie was a terrific human being and one of our much-loved Aussie treasures,” one wrote.
“RIP my friend. We will miss you dearly,” added another.
Just days before her passing, Marcie courageously revealed her leukemia diagnosis on social media.
“Sorry to start the day with rotten news. I am in hospital with leukaemia. Starting treatment soon. We are all feeling very scared but I’ll fight as hard as I can,” she shared with her followers.
Her passing comes just two months shy of her 80th birthday — a milestone she had planned to celebrate with a special concert for her devoted fans.
Marcie Jones leaves behind two children, a daughter-in-law, and a granddaughter. Her legacy as a pioneering artist and beloved Australian music icon will live on forever.
