Wayne Ellis, a well-known and cherished member of the Waterwells Primary Academy community in Quedgeley, tragically passed away last week at the age of 48. Wayne collapsed on the school field shortly after 4 pm on Thursday, June 4, while refereeing a tag rugby match. Despite the rapid response by the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, he could not be saved.
Fondly described as a “gentle giant,” Wayne dedicated countless hours to the school, volunteering as the Chair of the Friends of Waterwells PTA and coaching the tag rugby team. He was instrumental in organising many school events, including discos, summer fairs, and Christmas celebrations. Known for his love of music and DJing, Wayne’s upbeat spirit and generous nature touched everyone around him.
Beyond his visible contributions, Wayne regularly accompanied children on school trips, helped with maintenance, and supported various community activities. His kindness and willingness to help were endless, making him a pillar of the Waterwells community.
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In the wake of his sudden passing, friends and family have set up a fundraising page that has already raised over £8,000 to support Wayne’s family with funeral expenses and ongoing needs during this deeply difficult time. Felicity Tucker, a close friend of Wayne and his partner Jenny, created the GoFundMe page and shared heartfelt memories of Wayne’s gentle and giving nature.
“Wayne was a silent hero, always ready to lend a hand and care for those around him,” Felicity said. “He was the love of Jenny’s life, a devoted husband, father, and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”
Jenny, a teaching assistant at Waterwells Primary, and their daughters, including youngest daughter Molly who recently started secondary school, have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. Wayne was also a father figure to Daisy, Jenny’s daughter, and a loving dad to Lauren from a previous relationship.
The community continues to mourn the loss of a man whose impact went far beyond his role at the school. Wayne’s sudden death is believed to have been caused by a cardiac arrest, though he was known to be healthy with no prior warning signs.
Wayne Ellis leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and joy that will long be remembered by the Waterwells community and everyone who was fortunate to know him.