The entertainment world and a quiet Kentucky community are mourning the loss of Adelia "Ada" Zeidler, the elder sister of Hollywood icon George Clooney. Zeidler passed away after a courageous and private fight against cancer, as confirmed by PEOPLE magazine. She was 65 years old.
A Peaceful Passing Surrounded by Family
Ada Zeidler died on Friday, December 19, at St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Edgewood, Kentucky. According to her obituary, her final moments were peaceful, and she was comforted by her close family and loved ones. The news brings a sombre note to the Clooney family, who have requested privacy during this difficult time.
In an emotional statement to People, her brother, Oscar-winning actor and director George Clooney, paid a moving tribute. "My sister, Ada, was my hero," he expressed. The actor further shared, "She faced down cancer with courage and humour. I’ve never met anyone so brave. Amal and I will miss her terribly." This heartfelt message highlights the deep bond between the siblings, despite their vastly different public profiles.
A Life of Quiet Dedication Away from the Spotlight
Born on May 2, 1960, in Los Angeles, Ada was the daughter of renowned journalist and television host Nick Clooney and writer Nina Bruce Warren. While her brother George soared to global fame, Ada consciously chose a path away from the glaring lights of Hollywood. She dedicated her life to education and the arts, cultivating a rich, private existence.
Zeidler's professional life was centred on nurturing young minds. She served for many years as an elementary art teacher at Augusta Independent School. Her intellectual prowess was evident early on; her obituary notes that her exceptional academic performance in high school earned her the prestigious recognition of a National Merit Scholar. An avid reader and a dedicated member of a local book club, she also actively contributed to the cultural life of her community through her involvement with the Augusta Art Guild.
On March 14, 1987, she married retired army captain Norman Zeidler in a ceremony in Augusta that was warmly attended by much of the local community. The couple shared a life together until Captain Zeidler's tragic death in 2004 from a heart attack.
Family Ties and a Lasting Legacy
Although she valued her privacy, Ada did step into the public eye on occasion to support her family. She was notably present at her brother's high-profile wedding to human rights lawyer Amal Clooney in Venice in September 2014, a testament to their close relationship.
The family has scheduled her funeral service for Monday, December 22. In lieu of flowers, they have requested that well-wishers honour Ada's memory by making donations to the Knoedler Memorial Library in Augusta. This gesture reflects her lifelong passion for learning, literature, and community enrichment—a legacy that will continue to inspire.
Ada Zeidler's story is not one of red carpets and film premieres, but of quiet strength, dedication to education, and deep family love. Her battle with cancer was fought with the same dignity and resilience that characterised her life, leaving behind a community of students, friends, and a grieving family who will cherish her memory.
