Wayne Ellis, a devoted father and cherished member of the Waterwells Primary Academy community in Quedgeley, tragically passed away suddenly last week at the age of 48. He collapsed on the school field shortly after 4 pm on Thursday, June 4, while refereeing a tag rugby match. Despite the quick response from the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity, Wayne could not be saved and died at the scene.
Fondly remembered as a “gentle giant,” Wayne was known for his generosity and dedication to the school. He volunteered countless hours coaching the tag rugby team and served as Chair of the Friends of Waterwells PTA. He was instrumental in organizing school events such as discos, summer fairs, and Christmas celebrations. An avid music lover and DJ, Wayne was never shy about showcasing his dance moves and was rumored to have a special role assisting Santa Claus during the holidays.
In addition to his event work, Wayne helped with school trips, listened to readers, and assisted with maintenance tasks—always eager to lend a hand wherever needed. His kindness and commitment made a lasting impact on children, staff, and parents alike.
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To honor Wayne’s memory and support his family during this devastating time, close friend Felicity Tucker set up a GoFundMe page that has already raised more than £8,000 in five days. The funds will help cover funeral costs and provide practical assistance for Wayne’s partner Jen and their daughters.
Felicity, who has known Wayne and Jen throughout their 15-year relationship, described Wayne as a loving, cheeky, and kind-hearted individual. “He was the love of her life,” she shared. Jenny, 44, has been a teaching assistant at Waterwells Primary for many years, and their youngest daughter Molly, 11, recently moved on to secondary school. Wayne was also a devoted father to older daughters Lauren, 23, from a previous relationship, and Daisy, 21, whom he helped raise as his own.
The sudden loss has deeply affected the entire school community and local parents. Felicity explained, “So many parents wanted to help; that’s why the fundraiser was set up. It’s a huge shock to lose someone at such a young age.” She added that the family is overwhelmed by the generosity they have received, allowing them to focus on saying goodbye without financial worries.
Though Wayne was healthy with no known prior conditions, his death is thought to have resulted from sudden cardiac arrest. Wayne’s legacy of kindness and selflessness continues to inspire all who knew him, and his memory lives on in the hearts of the Waterwells community and his family.