In a heartbreaking Twitter post, the British singer wrote: “So sad to say that my mother passed away this morning. I only saw her last Monday and I am in shock.” 

The 70-year-old added: “Travel safe mum. Thank you for everything. I will miss you so much. Love, Elton.”

Sheila's death comes just months after she and her famous son put an end to their nine-year feud.

Confirming they were back in touch in May, the Rocket Man singer shared a throwback picture of the pair with the message: “Dear mum, Happy Mother's Day! So happy we are back in touch. Love, Elton xo #MothersDay."(sic)

Sadly, Sir Elton, 70, fell out with his mother back in 2008 after a disagreement over her maintaining friendships with his former staff members, Bob Halley and John Reid, with whom he had fallen out.

Bob had worked for him for three decades, first as a driver then later as a personal assistant, before he was fired as part of a series of changes he was making to his team.

The star failed to show up to his stepfather's funeral in 2010 and Sheila furthered the feud by hiring an Elton John tribute act for her 90th birthday party.

Many of his 768,000 followers rushed to offer their condolences to Sir Elton online, with one user replying simply: "Stay strong."

Two others continued: "My dearest Elton John, sorry for your loss! God bless you and all your family," and: "Sending lots of love and condolences."

Sir Elton was performing on stage at Palau Sant Jordi in Barcelona last night, before his mum passed away in West Sussex.

He also posted on Instagram: "Noel Gallagher joins me for a special #RocketHour show this Monday to discuss his new album and play each other our favourite tracks. Listen at 7pm PT / @beats1official. #WhoBuiltTheMoon @themightyi #noelgallagher."(sic)