Kathy Dooley obit

Kathy Dooley dead: Iconic 70s music star dies as bandmate brother pays touching tribute

Fans paid devastating tribute to the star as they learned the news.

 She was not on the list.

Singer Kathleen Dooley, often referred to as Kathy, who, along with her family, enjoyed huge chart success in the 1970s with songs such as Wanted and The Chosen Few, has died following an eight-year battle with dementia. The news was confirmed by her brother and The Dooleys bandmate Frank in a statement issued via The Dooleys Chosen Few Facebook page. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister Kathleen at around 7.00pm on April 22, 2026," he began.

"She was diagnosed with Frontal Temporal Dementia some eight years ago and has been receiving specialist care since 2019. Kathy was at the heart of our family and the music we created. Her lead vocals and harmonies were loved by all, and, together with Anne, her contributions to selecting stage clothes, presentations and choreography were essential to our image and success. Our thoughts and love are with her husband Andrew, who has ensured that Kathleen received the best possible care throughout her illness," he said.

He continued paying tribute to her carers writing: "Also to all the staff at Parsons Grange, who provided exceptional care, love and attention.

"Finally, thanks to all of you, for sharing your love and memories of our beautiful sister. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her," he concluded.

Although they formed in the late 1960s, it would be a decade later in 1977 before The Dooleys, who at one time boasted eight members, enjoyed their first chart success with Think I'm Gonna Fall in Love With You. Their string of UK hits gave them the record for being the largest family act ever featured on a hit single. They also enjoyed huge success as a live act in Europe and the Far East.

Fans rushed to pay tribute as they learned the sad news. "So sorry to hear this heartbreaking news. Thoughts are with you all. Kathy was my reason for loving the group. Her voice will always live on," one commented on the Facebook post.

"Very sad news to read, was fortunate enough to see Kathy and the Dooleys play live several times, particularly remember the first time at Baileys Night Club Leicester, and meeting Kathy and the band after the show, such wonderful times! RIP Kathy," another added. A third chimed in: "So very sorry to hear this sad news. Thinking of the family at this sad time. Loved Kathy and remembering all the times I saw The Dooley’s live. RIP Kathy."

A fourth shared: "Awww that's very sad news. I was fortunate enough to see The Dooleys 'accidentally' many years ago. I was walking along the front at Blackpool with a friend one dinner time and a bouncer was standing outside a bar. He said come in, it's free entry and we've got a turn on. So we went in and guess who it was. It was The Dooleys! Still love them to this day. R.I.P."

A fifth lamented: "Oh NO…..I had no idea that she had been even poorly. Nuts&Bolts worked with the Dooley Family way back before the hit records. What a great show they did and Kathy was fabulous and so nice. I lived a few doors from Anne and Bob. Condolences to all the family friends and fans. RIP Kathy."

Meanwhile a sixth penned: "There were so many chart songs I loved in my favourite music year 1979 and Wanted was one of them. So sad to hear this. RIP Kathleen and thanks for the music."