Was Jock McDonald married? All about family details as brother pays tribute to founder of the Bollock Brothers

Jock McDonald, the founder and lead singer of the punk band The Bollock Brothers has passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 69. As reported by The Sun, he died in a drowning accident while swimming near Bundoran beach in County Donegal, Ireland. His brother, Gerry O’Donnell, paid tribute and talked about how close they were, noting:

"He was more than a brother to me. I’m heartbroken but if he had to be taken then for him it would have been Donegal with our mum and Dad."

There is no clear public information that Jock McDonald was ever married. None of the news reports or biographies mentions a spouse or a wedding. They do refer to his children, and his children asked his bandmate Pat Pattyn to share the news of his death. But even when children are mentioned, none of the reports mention any wife or marriage. So we do not know whether he had a partner or was married.

Jock McDonald's family and tribute

Jock McDonald had a brother named Gerry O’Donnell. After Jock’s death, O’Donnell shared a heartfelt message online.

The band’s drummer, Pat Pattyn, confirmed Jock’s death on social media. He said the news came from Jock’s children, and he asked for privacy for the family and the band. He wrote:

“It is with great sadness … sadly, our singer Jock McDonald has died last night in Ireland, apparently a freak swimming accident. His children asked me to tell you all … his family and all the Bollock Brothers are in shock … Rest in peace, my friend … I will miss you.”

Other band members, including Keith Bradshaw, spoke of their grief. Bradshaw called Jock his best friend of 45 years and remembered him as a true legend. He said:

"Sad news to announce the [loss] of my best friend of 45 years. The famous Jock Mcdonald who sadly lost his life this morning RIP. My friend a true legend my heart goes out to all members of his family. Thanks for the great life we had together with the Bollock Brothers."

Fans and music writers also paid tribute to Jock and called him a punk icon, and credited him with originality and warmth.

In reports, Jock is described as having had children, but the outlets didn't mention a wife. The articles mention “his children asked me to tell you all,” but not who their mother is. This suggests that if he were married, that information has not been published publicly.

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Jock lived mostly in London and was active in Europe, especially in Belgium and Germany, where the band often toured. He loved football and both Belgium and Germany. He was active in music until just before his death and was working on a new single and album at the time.

Jock McDonald’s death has left many fans and loved ones heartbroken. While his music and punk energy touched people all over the world, his family was always close to him. He was not only a famous musician but also a brother, a father, and a man who deeply loved his Irish roots.

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