░B░R░E░A░K░I░N░G ░B░R░E░A░ 🅱🆁🅴🅰🅺 Penrith Panthers CEO Matt Cameron Mourns the Death of Former Legend Greg Alexander’s Wife Madeleine…

In a heartfelt statement that has rippled through the rugby league community, Penrith Panthers CEO Matt Cameron has paid tribute to Madeleine Alexander, the beloved wife of club icon and Hall of Famer Greg Alexander, following her untimely passing. The news, confirmed by family and club sources today, has left the Panthers family – both past and present – in collective mourning, underscoring the deep bonds that tie the club to its legends and their loved ones.

Madeleine Alexander, a pillar of quiet strength and unwavering support behind one of the NRL’s most celebrated halfbacks, passed away peacefully at her home in Western Sydney on December 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with illness. She was 58 years old. While details of her condition remain private, those close to the family describe her final days as surrounded by the love of her husband Greg, their two children, and extended family. Madeleine’s grace, warmth, and infectious laugh were hallmarks that endeared her to everyone from fellow Panthers supporters to the broader league fraternity.

### A Lifetime of Loyalty to the Black and Whites

Greg Alexander, known affectionately as “Brandy” for his love of the spirit, needs little introduction to rugby league purists. The halfback extraordinaire captained Penrith to their maiden NRL premiership in 1991, a drought-breaking 19-12 victory over the Canberra Raiders that etched his name into club immortality. With a Dally M Medal in 1985, State of Origin appearances for New South Wales, and Test caps for Australia, Alexander’s on-field brilliance was matched only by his off-field charisma. Today, he serves as Deputy Chairman of the Panthers board, a role where his insights continue to guide the club’s dynasty under coach Ivan Cleary.

But behind every great player stands a greater partner, and Madeleine was that for Greg. Married for over three decades, she was the steady hand through the highs of grand final glory and the lows of personal tragedy. The Alexanders’ story is intertwined with the Panthers’ own: from the electric 1990 Grand Final loss that fueled their 1991 triumph, to the heartbreaking 1992 car accident that claimed the life of Greg’s younger brother, Ben Alexander – a rising Panthers star himself. Madeleine was there through it all, offering solace during Greg’s grief-stricken stint with the Auckland Warriors in 1995 and celebrating his triumphant return to Penrith in 1997.

” Madeleine wasn’t just Greg’s wife; she was the heartbeat of our extended Panthers family,” Cameron said in his emotional statement released via the club’s official channels this afternoon. “Her support for Greg on and off the field was legendary – from cheering in the stands during those electric 80s and 90s finals series, to raising a beautiful family that embodies the grit and spirit of Penrith. Today, as we mourn her loss, we celebrate a life that touched so many. Our thoughts are with Greg, their children, and all who knew her. Madeleine, you wore the black and white with pride. Rest in peace.”

Cameron’s words echo a sentiment shared widely across social media and league circles. Tributes have poured in from former teammates like Brad Fittler and Mark Geyer – Alexander’s brother-in-law and fellow 1991 premiership winner – who posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Devastated for my mate Greg and the family. Madeleine was one of the kindest souls in our game. Holding you close, brother.” Current Panthers stars, including Jarome Luai and Brian To’o, have also extended condolences, with Luai sharing a photo of the couple from a recent club function: “Legends forever. Prayers up for Uncle Brandy.”

### A Legacy Beyond the Field

Madeleine’s influence extended far beyond the sidelines. A dedicated community volunteer in Penrith’s western suburbs, she was instrumental in the club’s Panthers on the Prowl outreach programs, focusing on youth development and family support. Her work with local charities, particularly those aiding families affected by road trauma – a nod to the enduring pain of Ben’s passing – earned her quiet acclaim. Friends recall her as the organizer of unforgettable post-game barbecues at the old Panthers Leagues Club, where stories of glory days flowed as freely as the drinks.

The Panthers organization has rallied swiftly in response. Flags at Panthers Stadium will fly at half-mast ahead of this weekend’s match against the Sydney Roosters, and a minute’s silence will be observed. A memorial service is scheduled for December 12 at St Mary’s Leagues Club, with the club encouraging fans to wear black and white in her honor. Donations in lieu of flowers are requested to the Ben Alexander Memorial Fund, which supports road safety initiatives in young athletes.

As the sun sets on another chapter of Penrith’s storied history, Cameron’s tribute reminds us that rugby league is more than a game – it’s a family forged in triumph and tempered by loss. Madeleine Alexander’s passing is a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the headlines, and her spirit will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of Panthers to play with the same heart she embodied.

The club has opened a condolence book online at penrithpanthers.com.au, where fans can share memories. In Greg’s own words from a 2024 interview reflecting on his career: “It’s not about the tries or the trophies; it’s about the people who stand by you.” Today, that stands truer than ever.