George Clooney is mourning the loss of one of his closest confidants.
Clooney’s Tribute to Ada Zeidler
The Oscar winner’s sister, Adelia “Ada” Zeidler, died Dec. 19 after battling cancer, he confirmed to People. She was 65. “My sister, Ada, was my hero,” Clooney, 64, told the outlet in a statement Dec. 20. “She faced down cancer with courage and humor. I’ve never met anyone so brave.”
Impact on Clooney and Amal
The actor noted the influence Zeidler had on him and his wife Amal Clooney, adding, “Amal and I will miss her terribly.”
Obituary Highlights
According to Zeidler’s obituary, she “died peacefully surrounded by the people she loved” in Edgewood, Ky. A funeral mass is set to take place Dec. 22. The obituary also described her as a talented artist who shared her skills as an elementary art teacher at Augusta Independent School for several years. In high school, her academic achievements qualified her to be a National Merit Scholar.
Early Life and Community Involvement
Born in Los Angeles on May 2, 1960, Zeidler – who resided in Augusta, Ky. – was active in her community, taking part in a local book club and serving as a member of the Augusta Art Guild. She also previously held the title of grand marshal of Augusta’s Annual White Christmas Parade, per the obituary.
Communication with Clooney
While Zeidler largely stayed out of the public eye, she maintained a close bond with Clooney through the years. In November 2012, she explained to The Columbus Dispatch that she did not keep his phone number on hand to avoid the risk of it falling into the wrong hands. “I wouldn’t want to have it in my phone and then lose my phone,” she told the newspaper. “He can phone me, and he does occasionally, but email is more convenient for both of us.”
Family Survivors
Predeceased by her husband Norman Zeidler in 2004, Zeidler is survived by her and Clooney’s parents, Nick Clooney and Nina Clooney, as well as her children, Nick Zeidler and Allison Zeidler Herolaga.
Funeral Details
A funeral mass is scheduled for Dec. 22 in Edgewood, Ky., where Zeidler passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
Clooney’s Family Update
George Clooney reveals goals for his twins Ella and Alexander this year.
Key Takeaways
- George Clooney mourns the loss of sister Ada Zeidler, who died Dec. 19 at age 65 after a cancer battle.
- Zeidler was a respected art teacher, National Merit Scholar, and community leader in Augusta, Ky.
- She maintained a unique communication approach with Clooney, preferring email over phone.
The announcement underscores the deep bond between Clooney and his sister, and highlights Zeidler’s lasting impact on her community and family.
