This weekend, Gloucester will come together to celebrate the life of Jordan Watts, a beloved football fan and local hero who passed away at just 30 years old after a brave battle with bone cancer. A memorial charity football match will be held to honor Jordan’s memory and support the hospice that cared for him in his final days.
Jordan’s fight began in September 2023 when he was diagnosed with sarcoma bone cancer following months of persistent back pain. Over the following months, he underwent chemotherapy at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham and faced further health challenges, including pneumonia requiring intensive care. Early 2024 brought a hopeful moment when Jordan began Proton Beam Therapy at The Christie in Manchester — and by December, he was declared cancer-free.
Sadly, the cancer returned in May 2025. Despite the heartbreaking news, Jordan faced the renewed battle with courage and determination until he passed away last month at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, surrounded by loved ones.
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To celebrate Jordan’s life and support the charity that helped his family through such a difficult time, a 90-minute memorial football match will take place this Saturday, July 25, at Gloucester City Football Club. The game will showcase players from Abbeymead Rovers, where Jordan’s brother Josh plays, reflecting Jordan’s deep connection to the sport and community.
Gates open at 1:30 pm with kick-off at 3 pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and £2 for children, with proceeds and fundraising raffles benefiting Sue Ryder’s vital palliative care and bereavement support services.
Rebecca White, Jordan’s partner, shared heartfelt memories of him: “Jordan lived and breathed football. He was so excited about the World Cup and had even been invited to Chelsea’s training ground, which was a dream come true. He was incredibly brave, full of life, and made every moment count, even in the face of such a tough illness.”
Rebecca also praised the hospice’s compassion, saying, “They didn’t just care for Jordan; they cared for all of us. Their kindness made a difficult time a little easier.”
Jordan’s brother Josh also emphasized the significance of the event: “Our family received amazing support from Sue Ryder. Jordan loved football, especially Chelsea FC, and was truly talented. Holding this match in his memory is a perfect way to honor him and help a charity that means so much to us.”
The Jordan Watts Memorial Match invites the community to come together, remember a remarkable young man, and support those providing essential care to others in need.
Come join us at Gloucester City FC on July 25 to celebrate Jordan’s life, legacy, and love of football.