Marion, who played a memorable role in many Irish children's life as the public face of Fossett's circus, died in hospital on Thursday night. Her family said she had been ill for some time.
The Fossett family have described Marion, remembering her fondly.
Sonya Fossett, Marion's niece shared that Marion "loved to entertain," both in and out of the ring. Sonya described Marion as not only "the face and voice of the business," but also, "she was a mother figure to the whole family. The kettle was always on, advice always at the ready and diamantés on standby."
Fossett's Circus was established by Marion's great-grandfather George Lowe and is currently one of the largest circus' in Ireland. They have been touring since 1888.
Marion's first act in the circus began at just 18 months old, riding an elephant. She continued to thrive in the circus learning skills such as contortion, sword balancing, and becoming an aerialist, before she succeeded her father as ringmaster in 1998.
Marion's stardom did not stop in the circus. In 1981 she represented Ireland in the Eurovision as part of the girl group Sheeba. Marion also took part in 6 national song contests.
Marion's family have said that "the gap she leaves is irreplacable," and that Marion will always be remembered fondly.
Marion urged her family to continue with the circus tradition, so much so that her last words to the family were ‘you've got to continue on with the show’.
