Madonna’s grandmother, Elsie Mae Fortin died Wednesday, age 99.
The material girl was close to her grandma, who was due to turn 100 in June – leaning heavily on her after Madonna’s own mother (also named Madonna) died of cancer when the singer was just five.
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Madonna frequently visited her grandmother over the years, often staying with her for weeks at a time.
Elsie’s obituary says she “passed away at her home on N. Dean Street in Bay City, Michigan, surrounded by friends and family on this very fitting Ash Wednesday.
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“Anyone who knows Elsie Fortin knows that her door was always open! She was a touchstone in the lives of so very many. She was a gentle soul who listened without judgment and offered comfort, care, and always a home-cooked meal– there were no strangers to her. Elsie’s kitchen table was a safe-haven and gathering hub for her children, their friends and families; to countless visiting grandchildren, cousins, spouses, longtime neighbors, and family friends.
“There was bacon, something sweet, and always more coffee at the ready; during the holidays there was meat pie, and occasionally the olive martini. She was regarded as second mother to many regardless of relation.
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“Right to the end, she kept in touch with the concerns and details of her 97 descendants and their ever-changing lives. Up until Sunday of this week she was taking visitors, listening to Glenn Miller, and Skyping with distant family.”
Elsie raised eight children of her own – four of them predeceased her.
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Elsie’s funeral liturgy is scheduled for 10am Saturday in South Union, Michigan.
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