George Michael's Sister Melanie Dies 3 Years to the Day After Her Famous Brother

In an eerie coincidence, George Michael's 55-year-old sister Melanie Panayiotou was found dead in her home on Christmas – three years to the day after Michael himself passed away, reports UK newspaper the Daiy Mail.

Michael, an openly gay pop star, was found dead at his Oxfordshire residence on Christmas in 2016, the newspaper recalled. He was 53.

Panayiotou's sudden death followed a joint statement from herself and other family members that was posted online only a few days before. The statement spoke of he impact that Michael's songs have had. Said the statement:

It seems important that his generosity of spirit and natural empathy have touched you in a way that would have him embarrassed, all your kind words are really good to hear and we know you have always known his true heart.

Panayiotou's unexpected passing was not dissimilar in some ways to the death of Debbie Reynolds, who died suddenly on Dec. 28, 2016, one day after one of her own family members unexpectedly passed away – Carrie Fisher, famed for her role as Leia Organa in the "Star Wars" films, died Dec. 27 of that same year.

Michael and Panayiotou's sister Yioda Panayiotou found Melanie in an unresponsive state. London's Metropolitan Police issued a statement in which it said that "The death is not being treated as suspicious" by the authorities.

Regarding Panayiotou's death, the family released a statement through their attorney, John Reid, the BBC reported:

"We would simply ask that the family's privacy be respected at this very sad time."

The Daily Mail took note of Michael's accomplishments as a singer-songwriter:

During his career Michael enjoyed seven number ones on the UK singles charts, including "Careless Whisper," "A Different Corner," "Jesus To A Child," and "Fast Love."

He had 23 top 10 hits, including "Faith," "Father Figure," "Outside," and "You Have Been Loved."