Ann Widdecombe’s family is arranging her funeral service at Buckfast Abbey, a place she cherished, church officials disclosed. Widdecombe, a former Cabinet Minister and spokesperson for Reform UK, had visited the abbey just days before her passing on July 8 and was a regular attendee.
A representative from Buckfast Abbey stated that they are collaborating with Widdecombe’s family on the funeral preparations and will share more details when appropriate. They respectfully requested privacy for the family during this time.
The statement also mentioned that the Monastic Community of Buckfast, led by Fr Abbot, is keeping Widdecombe, her family, and loved ones in their prayers. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy and support.
In a recent announcement, Widdecombe’s family stated that a private funeral service will be held in the near future, limited to close family and friends. A public memorial will follow later in the year, with details to be disclosed at a later time.
A spokesperson from Buckfast Abbey confirmed that the statement referred to the private funeral service but did not provide details on the date.
Widdecombe was discovered deceased at her residence in Haytor, Devon, approximately eight miles from Buckfast Abbey, on July 9, believed to have passed away around 24 hours earlier. Police charged Joshua Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, with her murder, alleging she was fatally struck with a hammer during lunch. A trial date is tentatively set for June 2027.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Widdecombe was assaulted, robbed of her wallet, and left injured before being found the following day at her isolated bungalow near Dartmoor National Park.
Following her failure to appear for a scheduled TV interview, concerns were raised, leading to the discovery of her injuries. An inquest in Exeter reported that Widdecombe was found unresponsive with visible injuries, though the exact cause of death remains under investigation.
