The cause of death for Anthony Ciccone, Madonna's oldest brother, has been revealed as respiratory failure and throat cancer, according to a death certificate obtained by TMZ. Ciccone's passing in February was reportedly due to several health problems, including oropharyngeal cancer, with tobacco use cited as a contributing factor.
PEOPLE initially confirmed Ciccone's death in February after Joe Henry, the husband of Madonna's sister Melanie Ciccone, announced the news on Instagram. At the time of his passing, Ciccone was 66 years old. The report said that he had removed his breathing and feeding tube two days before his death, despite being warned of the severe consequences.
In his Instagram post, Henry wrote, "My brother-in-law, Anthony Gerard Ciccone, exited this earthly plane last evening." He continued, "Anthony was a complex character; and god knows: we tangled in moments, as true brothers can." He went on to express his love for his brother-in-law, reflecting on their complicated relationship.
A source informed PEOPLE that Madonna and her family had a strained relationship with Ciccone due to his struggles. The source stated, "They were all there for him and despite being estranged, Madonna supported him in every way she could when he was willing to take the support." It was also reported that family members, including Madonna, visited Ciccone in his rehab facility during his final months.
After her brother's death, Madonna thanked him for exposing her to influential figures and concepts, saying, "Thank you for blowing my mind as a young girl. You planted many important seeds."
In 2011, Ciccone revealed that he was homeless and living under a bridge in their home state of Michigan. His brother, Christopher Ciccone, told The Mirror in 2017 that Anthony had returned home and was "recovering" after spending time in a treatment center.
Ciccone passed away in Suttons Bay, Michigan, on February 24, as stated in his obituary. He is remembered as an "insatiable reader" and "a deep lover of music with a wanderer's spirit." The obituary also acknowledges his difficulties and his distance from his family, describing him as "troubled and distant."
The obituary concludes by noting his appreciation for community and belonging, despite his isolation throughout much of his adult life due to the addiction that contributed to his early death. Ciccone is survived by his son Angelo Lawson-Smith.