Sinéad O’Connor, the iconic Irish singer-songwriter known for her haunting vocals and fearless personality, left behind not only a celebrated legacy but also detailed instructions for her children in her will. The “Nothing Compares 2 U” artist passed away in July 2023 at the age of 56, leaving an estate valued at £1.7 million ($2.12 million), which was later adjusted to £1.4 million ($1.75 million) after debts, legal fees, and funeral costs.
Estate Details and Legacy Plans
O’Connor’s will, which was signed in 2013, revealed her desire to split her fortune among her surviving children. She urged them to take full advantage of her music catalog, instructing them to “milk it for what it’s worth.” With over 6.2 million albums sold globally, her timeless music remains a valuable asset.
The singer expressed this wish explicitly in her will:
“I direct that after my death, and at the discretion of any of my children who are then over 18, my albums are to be released to ‘milk it for what it’s worth.’”
O’Connor also left sentimental bequests, including her religious regalia to her late son Shane and her guitar collection to her youngest child, Yeshua.
Family and Executor Appointment
Sinéad O’Connor had four children during her lifetime. Her eldest son Jake Reynolds, 37, was born from her marriage to music producer John Reynolds, whom she named the executor of her estate. The couple was married from 1987 to 1991.
O’Connor also had a daughter, Roisin Waters, 29, with journalist John Waters, and a son, Yeshua Bonadio, 18, with Frank Bonadio. Tragically, her third son Shane passed away in 2022 at the age of 17.
Her will granted her children the freedom to decide how to handle her ashes, further reflecting her deep trust in their judgment.
Cause of Death and Posthumous Recognition
Sinéad O’Connor’s death in July 2023 was ruled as a result of “exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchial asthma together with low-grade lower respiratory tract infection.” The Irish Independent reported that her death was officially registered a year later, in July 2024, by her ex-husband John Reynolds.
The singer’s passing prompted a global outpouring of grief and tributes, celebrating her remarkable career and highlighting her contributions to music and social causes.
Remembering a Complex Icon
Sinéad O’Connor’s life was marked by triumph and tragedy. She achieved global fame with hits like “Nothing Compares 2 U” and fearlessly spoke out on issues ranging from religion to social justice. Her final wishes, as outlined in her will, reflect her commitment to her family and her legacy.
By urging her children to cherish and promote her music, Sinéad O’Connor ensured that her voice will continue to resonate with fans worldwide. Her life, music, and values remain an enduring source of inspiration.
