The columnist, who had been suffering from cancer, passed away on Saturday morning in her sleep. Her son Pierce confirmed the news on social media writing: "It is with great sadness that I have to tell you that my mother died peacefully in her sleep this morning in Moissac, France. She always wrote from the heart and with deep conviction. You all meant a lot to her." It is with great sadness that I have to tell you that my mother died peacefully in her sleep this morning in Moissac, France. She always wrote from the heart and with deep conviction. You all meant a lot to her. Thank you. Pierce xxx pic.twitter.com/IM4gvQSQKl— fidelma cook (@fidelmacook) June 26, 2021