**Husband’s Touching Tribute After Wife’s Early Passing Just Months After Wedding**
A former Royal Marine will return to the cherished setting where he married his beloved wife, only months before she tragically lost her battle with cancer, to mark a poignant tribute in her memory.
Gavin Windham, a veteran of Afghanistan, wed his partner Jo at the picturesque Bedwellty House and Park in Tredegar, not long after Jo received the devastating news of her secondary cancer diagnosis. Her passing in November 2021, at the family home in Blaenau Gwent, left a profound void for Gavin and their two young children, aged five and eight.
In honour of Jo’s life and the countless memories they shared, Gavin will join other families for a commemorative event at Bedwellty House on Sunday, 13 July. The gathering, hosted by Hospice of the Valleys, is expected to attract hundreds seeking to remember loved ones. Attendees will be able to dedicate a symbolic daisy as part of the “Forever in Bloom” tribute—a gesture Gavin plans to make for Jo.
Reflecting emotionally on his late wife, Gavin shared, “Jo was truly the foundation of our family. She was the driving force behind every adventure, every seaside trip, every holiday. Her devotion to us was unwavering; she always put our needs first, selflessly giving her time to ensure we were all happy.” It is clear that Jo’s presence leaves a lasting impression not only within her own family, but in the wider community as well.
As a former serviceman, Gavin is no stranger to adversity. However, he admitted that the challenges faced following Jo’s diagnosis were unforeseen. The couple soon became involved with Hospice of the Valleys, a charity organisation offering vital support at a time of overwhelming uncertainty. “Initially, I didn’t fully comprehend the breadth of what the hospice could offer,” Gavin admitted. “But having someone available to speak to at any hour allowed me to care for Jo without overwhelming her with my own anxieties. The practical and emotional assistance was simply invaluable.”
Gavin’s experience has given him a new perspective on the unpredictability of life and the importance of community support. “Cancer isn’t something you expect to impact your own family, especially when you’re young. We all plan for homes, children, and holidays—not these kinds of losses. That’s why organisations like Hospice of the Valleys are so essential and deserve ongoing support.”
The upcoming “Forever in Bloom” festival, stretching from 11 to 13 July, invites families to dedicate daisies in memory of loved ones and join a collective celebration of life. Sunday’s events will include family-friendly activities from 11 am, followed by the main commemorative gathering with live entertainment commencing at 1 pm at the park’s bandstand. The day aims to blend remembrance with joy, celebrating the bonds that persist even after loss.
Sarah Harries, head of clinical services at Hospice of the Valleys, expressed the charity’s appreciation for such communal occasions. “Coming together as a community to remember and celebrate our loved ones helps keep their memories alive and reaffirms the power of support during the toughest moments,” she stated. “For nearly 40 years, we’ve been privileged to stand with the people of Blaenau Gwent, and events like Forever in Bloom ensure we can continue our critical work. We are deeply grateful for everyone’s support and look forward to welcoming all to this special celebration.”
For those interested in dedicating a daisy and supporting the hospice’s ongoing mission, details can be found directly through the charity’s website. Gavin’s dedication not only honours Jo’s memory, but shines a light on the enduring strength and compassion found within families dealing with profound loss—a testament to how personal grief can inspire collective action and lasting community connection.