89-year-old Julie Cowell, who lost her own husband, Eric, in 1999, died on Sunday.
Releasing a statement, the Cowell family paid tribute to the late Julie, saying: "Today our beloved mum Julie passed away. Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was. We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace."
Thanking the media for the courtesy extended to the Cowell family thus far, Julie's heartbroken family has asked that it may continue, with a spokesperson saying: "We would like to thank the media for kindly respecting Julie's privacy throughout and we politely request continued privacy for the entire family at this particularly difficult time."
Simon, who is known to have shared a particularly close bond with his beloved mum, has understandably cancelled X Factor auditions which were due to take place in Manchester today.
Seeking solace from family at this devastating time, the world-famous music mogul and doting dad-of-one has made further no plans regarding the decision.
Commenting on this, a spokesperson for Syco Entertainment said: "They were due to start tomorrow and carry on into Tuesday and Wednesday. Tomorrow's have been cancelled and we have not made any decisions beyond that."
Julie Cowell was mother to Nicholas, Simon, Tony and Michael, and stepmother to John and June.
Much like the Douglas' family yesterday, our thoughts are with the deceased's wide circle of friends and family this morning.
