Marcie Jones: Australian singer dies aged 79 in hospital days after revealing leukaemia diagnosis

Australian singer Marcie Jones has died at the age of 79, passing away just days after revealing she had been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Jones, a beloved musician who rose to fame in the 1960s as lead singer of Marcie and the Cookies, had a decades long career that saw her tour with acts including The Monkees, The Seekers and Cliff Richard and the Shadows.

After releasing two singles with Marcie and the Cookies, Jones went solo.

Her biggest hit, Gonna Get Married, saw Jones enjoy a pioneering success.

On Tuesday, Jones took to social media to tell friends and family that she had been diagnosed with leukaemia, saying she was “scared” but was going to “fight” and start treatment.

However, in a tragic turn just days after making the announcement, Jones passed away.

Confirming the news, Jones’s daughter in law Lisa Astra said she felt “numb”.

“It’s with great sadness (that I ) let you all know that my beautiful mother-in-law, Marcie Jones, passed away yesterday (Saturday) evening,” she wrote.

“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.

Astra, who is also a singer, described her mother in law as a “legend” and an “icon”.

“You will always be remembered,” she added.

“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!”