Funeral of Dame Deborah James takes place today
She died last month aged 40
Last updated 20th Jul 2022
The funeral of Dame Deborah James takes place today with close friends and family attending the private service.
The podcast host and mother-of-two, who became known as Bowelbabe, died last month, aged just 40, after being diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016.
The former deputy headteacher kept her nearly one million Instagram followers up to date with her treatments.
Her candid posts about her progress and diagnosis, including videos of her dancing her way through treatment, won praise from the public and media alike.
Dame Deborah revealed in early May she had stopped active treatment and was seeing out her final days at her parents' home in Woking.
She received end-of-life care with her husband, Sebastien, and their two children, by her side.
In her final months, the presenter of the podcast You, Me And The Big C raised almost £7 million for research, with the amount climbing further following her death.
She was made a dame for her "tireless" work improving awareness of the disease, with the honour conferred by the Duke of Cambridge, who joined her family for afternoon tea and champagne at home.
Her death was announced on June 28, with a message saying she had died peacefully, surrounded by her family.
Prince William and Kate, charities, celebrities and many whose lives have been affected by cancer shared tributes.
Other famous faces we've lost this year
Kim Mi-soo
South Korean actress Kim Mi-soo, who starred in Disney+ show Snowdrop, died suddenly at the age of 29 in January.
Her agency, Landscape Entertainment, said: "Kim suddenly left us on Jan. 5. The bereaved are deep in their sorrow at the sudden sadness. Please refrain from reporting false rumors or speculation so that the family can mourn in peace."
George Rossi
Actor George Rossi, best known for playing the role of DC Duncan Lennox in ITV series The Bill, sadly passed away on 5th January.
His niece confirmed the sad news on social media.
Peter Bogdanovich
Oscar-nominated director and actor Peter Bogdanovich sadly died of natural causes at the age of 82 in January, with his daughter confirming the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Sir Sidney Poitier
Sir Sidney Poitier, who was the first black man to receive an Oscar for best actor, sadly passed away at the age of 94 in January. The news was confirmed by Bahamaian Minister of Foreign Affairs Fred Mitchell.
Jack Dromey Labour MP
Labour MP Jack Dromey died suddenly in his home in Birmingham on Friday 7th January, at the age of 73.
A statement from his family said: "He had been a dedicated member of parliament for Birmingham Erdington since 2010. He was a much loved husband, father and grandfather, and he will be greatly missed."
Bob Saget
Full House star Bob Saget was found dead in a hotel room at the age of 65 in January, whilst on his latest comedy tour across America.
His family said in a statement: "We are devastated to confirm that our beloved Bob passed away today.
"He was everything to us and we want you to know how much he loved his fans, performing live and bringing people from all walks of life together with laughter."
Nicholas Donnelly
Grange Hill actor Nicholas Donnelly sadly died in his sleep aged 84 in January.
A statement from his family said: "He was a gracious, kind and lovely man, a wonderful father and grandfather.
"He was also very funny and brilliant at telling stories, acting out all the characters, marvellous company and a privilege to know.
"He loved nothing more than offering hospitality and making people feel welcome."
Marilyn Bergman
Oscar-winning lyricist Marilyn Bergman died at the age of 93 in January. Throughout her career she worked with her husband Alan to write songs for stage shows and films. They worked with big names in showbiz including Barbra Streisand, Fred Astaire and Frank Sinatra, and were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1980.
Gary Waldhorn
Vicar of Dibley actor Gary Waldhorn sadly passed away at the age of 78 in January. The actor played the role of Councillor David Horton in the hit series between 1994-2015.
Ronnie Spector
The Ronettes singer Ronnie Spector sadly passed away at the age of 78 in January, following a 'brief battle' with cancer. She was surrounded by her family when she died.
Sean Rice
Professional skater Sean Rice sadly died at the age of 49 in January, with his former Dancing On Ice colleagues paying tribute online. Sean appeared on the 2011 and 2012 series of the ITV show.
André Leon Talley
Fashion icon and former Vogue creative director André Leon Talley passed away at the age of 73 in January. His death was confirmed by a statement posted to his Instagram account.
Gaspard Ulliel
Actor and model Gaspard Ulliel died following a ski accident in the Alps. He was hospitalised on Tuesday following the accident and was flown to a hospital in Grenoble where he sadly died as a result of his injuries.
Gaspard portrayed the young Hannibal Lecter in Hannibal Rising, played Yves Saint Laurent in the biopic Saint Laurent, and had been the face of the Chanel fragrance Bleu de Chanel.
He will now appear posthumously as Midnight Man in Moon Knight, an upcoming Marvel miniseries on Disney+.
Hardy Krüger
Actor and author Hardy Krüger passed away at the age of 93 in January, with his agency saying: "His warmth of heart, joie de vivre, and his unshakable sense of justice will make him unforgettable."
Meat Loaf
Singer and actor Meat Loaf, real name Michael Lee Aday, died aged 74 on Thursday 20th January 2022. His family confirmed the news in a statement that said: ' 'Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side. Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours.'
Thierry Mugler
French fashion designer Thierry Mugler sadly died at the age of 73 in January. A post on his Facebook page confirmed the news, with a statement reading: "We are devastated to announce the passing of Mr Manfred Thierry Mugler on Sunday January 23rd 2022."
Barry Cryer
Comedian and writer Barry Cryer sadly passed away at the age of 86 in January. Tributes immediately poured in from across the world, with the likes of Piers Morgan, Stephen Fry and Gyles Brandreth paying their respects.
Leonard Fenton
EastEnders legend Leonard Fenton, who played the iconic role of Dr Harold Legg, sadly died at the age of 95 in January.
Leonard appeared in the first ever episode of EastEnders, going on to appear in 267 episodes before his final in 2019.
Betty Davis
70's funk icon Betty Davis, who was married to jazz musician Miles Davis, died of natural causes in February at the age of 77.
Nightbirde (Jane Marczewski)
America's Got Talent star Nightbirde (real name Jane Marczewski), sadly lost her four-year battle with cancer on Saturday 19th February, her family confirmed in a statement.
Simon Cowell, who gave the singer his Golden Buzzer on the show in 2021, paid a moving tribute to her online.
Jamal Edwards
The entrepreneur gained fame from setting up the new music platform, SBTV, which helped to launch a string of UK music careers including Ed Sheeran, Dave and Jessie J. Jamal was an ambassador for the Prince's Trust, a charity headed by the Prince of Wales, and in 2014 he was awarded an MBE for his services to music.
His manager told the PA news agency that Edwards died on Sunday 20th February, with his mum, Loose Women star Brenda Edwards, later revealing he'd died from a sudden illness.
Gary Brooker
Pianist and singer, best known for his time in Procol Harum, Gary Brooker sadly passed away on 19th February at the age of 76.
The news that he had died following a battle with cancer was confirmed in a statement which referred to Gary as: 'a brightly-shining, irreplaceable light in the music industry'.
Anna Karen
Actress Anna Karen, best known for her roles as Olive in On The Buses and Aunt Sal in EastEnders, tragically died in a house fire in February.
Sally Kellerman
M_A_SH actress Sally Kellerman sadly passed away at an assisted care facility in California in February, following a long battle with dementia.
Ned Eisenberg
Mare Of Easttown and Law & Order star Ned Eisenberg sadly died at the age of 65 after a two-year battle with cancer, his wife confirmed.
Shirley Hughes
Children's author Shirley Hughes, best known for her loved books in the Alfie series, sadly passed away peacefully in her home at the age of 94 in February.
Shane Warne
Australian cricketing legend Shane Warne sadly died aged just 52 after a suspected heart attack in March.
Lynda Baron
Actress Lynda Baron, best known for her roles in shows like Open All Hours, Come Outside, EastEnders and Fat Friends, sadly died at the age of 82 in March, with her long-time agent confirming the news.
Ron Pember
Only Fools and Horses actor Ron Pember sadly died at the age of 87 in March, with his grandson Paul confirming the news. He said: 'The sadness now is the happiness then. That's the deal. 11.04.1934 - 08.03.2022 #ronpember #grandad.'
Emilio Delgado
Sesame Street star Emilio Delgado, best know for his role as Fix-it Shop owner Luis Rodriguez in the show, sadly passed away in March at the age of 81.
William Hurt
Marvel star William Hurt sadly died at the age of 71 in March. The news was confirmed by his friend Gerry Byrne, who said: "He died peacefully, among family, of natural causes. The family requests privacy at this time."
Peter Bowles
Actor Peter Bowles, best known for his role of Richard DeVere on To The Manor Born, sadly died of cancer at the age of 85 in March.
Taylor Hawkins
Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins sadly died at the age of 50 in March, with the band confirming the heartbreaking news via a statement.
The band said: "The Foo Fighters family is devastated by the tragic and untimely loss of our beloved Taylor Hawkins. His musical spirit and infectious laughter will live on with all of us forever.
"Our hearts go out to his wife, children and family, and we ask that their privacy be treated with the utmost respect in this unimaginably difficult time."
Tom Parker
The Wanted's Tom Parker sadly died at the age of 33 in March, after suffering from an inoperable brain tumour. His wife Kelsey confirmed the hearbreaking news in a statement.
It read: 'It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm Tom passed away peacefully earlier today with all of his family by his side. Our hearts are broken, Tom was the centre of our world and we can't imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence. We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all unite to ensure Tom's light continues to shine for his beautiful children. Thank you to everyone who has supported in his care throughout, he fought until the very end. I'm forever proud of you ❤️💫✨❤️'. (sic)
June Brown
June Brown was best known for playing Dot Cotton in EastEnders since the show started in 1985 until 1997, before reprising her role in 1997 until 2020.
The actress' death, at the age of 95, was announced by EastEnders and her family in April saying: "We are deeply saddened to announce our beloved mother, June, passed away very peacefully at her home in Surrey on Sunday evening, with her family by her side.
"We would kindly ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time."
David McKee
Autor David McKee, famous for children's novels Elmer and Mr Benn, sadly passed away at the age of 87 in April, following a short illness.
His publisher Anderson Press wrote: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the death of David McKee, beloved author and illustrator for children, and creator of iconic children's books Elmer, Not Now, Bernard and Mr Benn.
'David died surrounded by his family, following a short illness in the South of France, where he has spent a lot of time in recent years; he was 87.'
Rae Allen
Actress Rae Allen (left) sadly passed away on 6th April. She died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 95.
The Tony-Award winning actress was known best for her roles in A League Of Their Own, Seinfield, and The Sopranos. She also appeared in a number of theatre shows including Damn Yankees and Traveller Without Luggage.
Gilbert Gottfried
Comedian and actor Gilbert Gottfried sadly passed away following a long illness at the age of 67 in April.
Best known for voicing Iago in Disney's animated Aladdin, Gilbert's sad passing was confirmed by his family on Twitter.
Melanie Clark Pullen
Former EastEnders actress Melanie Clark Pullen sadly passed away in April at the young age of 46, following a battle with breast cancer.
Robert Morse
Mad Men actor Robert Morse sadly died at the age of 90 in April, his son revealed in a statement.
Andrew Woolfolk
Saxophonist Andrew Woolfolk sadly passed away at the age of 71 following a six-year battle with an illness. He was best known for his time in genre-spanning 70s group Earth, Wind & Fire.
Bandmate Philip Bailey said in a tribute to Andrew: 'I met him in High School, and we quickly became friends and band mates. Andrew Paul Woolfolk was his name. We lost him today.
'Funny. Competitive. Quick witted. And always styling. Booski… I'll see you on the other side, my friend.'
Kailia Posey
Toddlers and Tiaras star Kailia Posey heartbreakingly died at the age of just 16, just days after her prom in May. Her sad passing was confirmed by her mum, but her cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
As well as appearing on the show, Kailia was turned into a popular GIF (as pictured) due to her cheeky smile.
Mike Hagerty
Actor Mike Hagerty died a few days shy of his 68th birthday. He'd been starring in the TV show Somebody Somewhere as Ed Miller and his co-star shared the sad news. Bridget Everett wrote: 'A beloved character actor, his love of his hometown of Chicago and his family were the cornerstones of his life. Mike, a devoted husband, is survived by his wife Mary Kathryn, his sister Mary Ann Hagerty and her wife Kathleen O'Rourke, and their daughter Meg. He will be sorely missed.'
Dennis Waterman
Actor Dennis Waterman, best known for his roles in Minder, New Tricks and The Sweeney, sadly died at the age of 74 in May.
In a statement, his family said: "We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved Dennis passed away very peacefully in hospital in Spain."
Bruce MacVittie
Actor Bruce MacVittie sadly passed away at the age of 65 on 7th May. As well as acting on Broadway, Bruce had starring roles on The Sopranos, Law & Order and As The World Turns, and also appeared on Sex And The City.
Law & Order producer Warren Leight paid tribute to the late actor, saying: 'We've worked together often. He was a beautiful, honest actor and man. The real deal.'
Kay Mellor
TV writer Kay Mellor, best known for writing shows such as Fat Friends and The Syndicate, sadly passed away at the age of 71 in May.
Andy Fletcher
Depeche Mode keyboardist and founding member Andy 'Fletch' Fletcher sadly died at the age of 60 in May.
His bandmates Dave Gahan and Martin Gore released a statement which read: 'We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member and bandmate Andy 'Fletch' Fletcher.
'Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh, or a cold pint.
'Our hearts are with his family, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts and respect their privacy in this difficult time.'
Ray Liotta
Hollywood actor Ray Liotta sadly died in his sleep at the age of 67 in May. He was in the Dominican Republic at the time filming for upcoming movie Dangerous Waters.
Ray was best known for his role as Henry Hill in Goodfellas, and among the many tributes paid to the actor, his co-star Lorraine Bracco said: 'I am utterly shattered to hear this terrible news about my Ray.
'I can be anywhere in the world & people will come up & tell me their favorite movie is Goodfellas. Then they always ask what was the best part of making that movie. My response has always been the same…Ray Liotta.'
Alec John Such
Alec John Such, Bon Jovi's original bassist and co-founding member, sadly died aged 70 in early June.
Bon Jovi issued a statement to their social channels on 5th June to confirm the sad news.
Hilary Devey
Former Dragons' Den star Hilary Devey sadly died at the age of 65 in June, following a long illness. Her publicist Benjamin Webb confirmed the news.
Dame Deborah James
Cancer fundraiser Dame Deborah James sadly lost her battle with bowel cancer in June, with her family releasing a heartbreaking statement on Tuesday 28th to confirm she'd passed away peacefully surrounded by her family.
Mona Hammond OBE
EastEnders actress Mona Hammond OBE sadly passed away at the age of 91 in July.
James Caan
Godfather and Elf star James Caan sadly died at the age of 82 in early July.
His family released a statement reading: 'It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.
'The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.'
David Warner
Titanic, The Omen and Star Trek star David Warner sadly died on 24th July 2022, aged 80, from a cancer-related illness. The Manchester-born actor's family revealed the sad news, in a statement reading: "He will be missed hugely by us, his family and friends, and remembered as a kind-hearted, generous and compassionate man, partner and father whose legacy of extraordinary work has touched the lives of so many over the years. We are heartbroken.
"He is survived by his beloved partner Lisa Bowerman, his much-loved son Luke and daughter in-law Sarah, his good friend Jane Spencer Prior, his first wife Harriet Evans and his many gold dust friends."
Bernard Cribbins
In July, Bernard Cribbins, an actor who has been entertaining us for over 60 years died aged 93. He was well known for his roles in The Railway Children, Doctor Who, Old Jack's Boat and narrating the Wombles.
Paul Sorvino
American actor Paul Sorvino, best known for his roles in Law & Order and Goodfellas, sadly died at the age of 83 in July. Paul's daughter Mira Sorvino confirmed the news in a statement on Twitter.
Pat Carroll
Comedy actor and voice actor Pat Carroll sadly passed away on Saturday 30th July at the age of 95 from pneumonia. Among other roles, the Emmy Award-winning actress voiced Ursula for The Little Mermaid in 1989.
Nichelle Nichols
Actress Nichelle Nichols, known best for her role in Star Trek sadly passed away at the age of 89 on 30th July from natural causes.
She played Lieutenant Nyota Uhura in the series from 1966-1969 and was one of the first black actresses to play an authority figure in the US.
Dame Olivia Newton-John
Dame Olivia Newton-John peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Monday 8th August.
Olivia's husband John Easterling confirmed the sad news on social media, writing: 'Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends. We ask that everyone please respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time.'
Lamont Dozier
Legendary Motown producer, singer and songwriter Lamont Dozier sadly died at the age of 81 in August, and the sad news was confirmed by his family.
He was part of the Holland-Dozier-Holland team, and was responsible for numerous big hits throughout the 60s and 70s. Lamont Dozier wrote for groups like The Supremes, The Isley Brothers, The Four Tops, and Martha and the Vandellas.
Raymond Briggs
Author-illustrator Raymond Briggs, best-known for his 1978 classic The Snowman, sadly died at the age of 88 in August, his family confirmed the news.
Darius Danesh
Darius Campbell Danesh, who rose to fame on Pop Idol in 2002, sadly died at the age of 41 in August.
Darius' family released a statement to confirm the shock news, revealing he was found unresponsive in bed in his apartment room in Rochester, Minnesota.
Bruce Montague
Former Hollyoaks actor Bruce Montague, who was also known for his role in Doctor Who audio adventures, sadly passed away at the age of 83 in August.
his talent agency Belfield & Ward announced the news on social media.
Josephine Tewson
Actress Josephine Tewson, best known for her roles in Keeping Up Appearances and Last of the Summer Wine, sadly died at the age of 91 in August.
Her agent confirmed the news in a statement which read: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Josephine Tewson.
'Josephine passed away peacefully last night at Denville Hall at the Age of 91.'
Bill Turnbull
Following a long battle with prostate cancer, presenter and journalist Bill Turnbull sadly died at the age of 66 on Wednesday 31t August.
His family confirmed the sad news in an online statement.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
On the evening of 8th September, the Royal Family confirmed the sad news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had died at the aged 96.
The statement read: 'The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.
'The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.'
Jean-Luc Godard
French-Swiss film director Jean-Luc Godard sadly died at the age of 91 in September.
Cherry Valentine
RuPaul's Drag Race UK star George Ward, known by his stage name Cherry Valentine, sadly died at the age of 28 in September. His family released a statement revealing the passing was a 'profound shock'.
Dame Hilary Mantel
Dame Hilary Mantel, the British author best known for the Wolf Hall series of novels, sadly died at the age of 70 in September, her agent revealed.
Coolio
American rapper Coolio, famed for the hit 'Gangsta's Paradise', sadly died at the age of 59 in September, after suffering a suspected heart attack whilst visiting a friend in Los Angeles.
Dame Angela Lansbury,
Dame Angela Lansbury, who starred as Jessica Fletcher in Murder, She Wrote died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 96 in October. Her beloved family released a statement to confirm the sad news.
Robbie Coltrane
On 15th October, the tragic news was announced that Robbie Coltrane had passed away. The actor was famed for huge roles such as Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter franchise, and Dr. Eddie "Fitz" Fitzgerald in Cracker.
Leslie Jordan
American actor Leslie Jordan tragically died at the age of 67 in October, after he was involved in a fatal car crash in Los Angeles. Leslie was on his way to the Warner Bros studio set to film Call Me Kat at the time of the accident.
Migos rapper Takeoff
Migos rapper Takeoff was shot dead at the age of 28 while playing dice with fellow Migos member and uncle Quavo.
Aaron Carter
Singer and rapper Aaron Carter, the brother of Backstreet Boys' Nick Carter, died at the age of 34 in November. His rep confirmed the sad news, saying: "Right now it's a really bad time, we're trying to figure out what happened and what the cause of it wa.
"We're just as upset as everyone and hope that fans can give thoughts and prayers to his family."
Bill Treacher
Bill Treacher, who played Arthur Fowler in EastEnders, died aged 92 in November. He was one of the soap's original cast members appearing from 1985 until 1996.
Leslie Phillips
Leslie Phillips, famous for appearing in the Carry On films and being the voice of the Sorting Hat in Harry Potter, sadly died at the age of 98 in November. Leslie died peacefully in his sleep.
Irene Cara
Oscar and Grammy winning musician Irene Cara sadly died at the age of 63 in November. Her publicist Judith Moose announced the news on social media.
Doddie Weir
Scottish Rugby player Doddie Weir sadly passed away at the age of 52 in November, after going public with his Motor Neurone Disease (MND) diagnosis in 2017. Doddie's family confirmed the news in a heartbreaking statement.
Christine McVie
Fleetwood Mac's co-lead vocalist and keyboardist Christine McVie sadly passed away at the age of 79 at the end of November, following a short illness. Her family released a statement at the time revealing she died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
Kirstie Alley
US actress Kirstie Alley sadly died from cancer at the age of 71 in December, her family revealed in a statement. Kirstie, who was best known for her role in Cheers, was surrounded by her closest family at the time.
Ronnie Turner
Tina Turner's son, Ronnie Turner, sadly passed away in December after reportedly suffering from past health issues. Ronnie was a musician in the group Manufactured Funk, with Tina taking to her Instagram to announce the sad news.
Stephen 'tWitch' Boss
Stephen 'tWitch' Boss was the dancing DJ who appeared on The Ellen Show. tWitch died in December 2022 at the age of 40.
Ellen Degeneres took to social media to remember her friends saying: 'I'm heartbroken. tWitch was pure love and light. He was my family, and I loved him with all my heart. I will miss him. Please send your love and support to Allison and his beautiful children - Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia.'
Ruth Madoc
Actress Ruth Madoc, best known for starring in Hi-de-Hi!, sadly died at the age of 79 in December. A statement given to the PA news agency said: "It is with much sadness that we have to announce the death of our dear and much-loved client Ruth Madoc.
"Ruth passed away on the afternoon of Friday December 9 while in hospital following surgery for a fall she had earlier in the week, which had led her to have to withdraw from panto in Torquay."
Terry Hall
The Specials frontman Terry Hall sadly died at the age of 63 in December, following a short illness. The Specials confirmed the shocking news in a statement on social media.
Jo Mersa Marley
Musician Jo Mersa Marley, grandson of reggae legend Bob Marley, sadly passed away unexpectedly on 27th December at 31-years-old. He is survived by his wife Qiara and their daughter Sunshine.
Maxi Jazz
Maxi Jazz, the lead singer of electronic band Faithless, has died aged 65. The musician, whose real name was Maxwell Fraser, was a core member of the group alongside Rollo and Sister Bliss who released a number of hit tracks together including Insomnia and We Come 1.
Pele - Edson Arantes do Nascimento
Brazil football legend Edson Arantes do Nascimento, known globally as Pele, sadly passed away at the age of 82 in December, with his daughter Kely confirming the sad news on social media. Following his death, tributes poured in from across the world for one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Dame Vivienne Westwood
Fashion icon Dame Vivienne Westwood sadly passed away at the age of 81 in December, dying peacefully surrounded by her family in Clapham, South London.
Barbara Walters
On the 30th December, it was announced that Barbara Walters had died aged 93. She was the first female co-host of TV show Today, and the first evening news anchorwoman in broadcast history, She was also co-creator and co-host of topical chat show The View.
Former Pope Benedict
On the 31st December, it was announced that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI had died at the age of 95. A statement from Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said: 'With pain I inform that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesia Monastery in the Vatican. Further information will be released as soon as possible.'