Gethin Jones has been seen in public for the first time since announcing the death of his father, Goronwy Jones, after a short illness. The 47-year-old TV presenter, who revealed the heartbreaking news earlier this week, paid a deeply personal tribute to the man he “thought the world of.”
On Monday, Gethin posted what would be their final photo together — smiling side by side in hospital — along with a touching message. He shared that he had been playing his father hymns and the Welsh classic “Arias” from his phone just hours before his passing. Quoting Max Boyce, he wrote: “Wales defeated England. Hymns and Arias with Dad last night, before he left us this morning.”
Describing it as “the most perfect, peaceful end,” Gethin said Welsh hymns played in the background while his father’s grandsons said their goodbyes over the phone. He reflected on his father’s remarkable resilience, sharp wit, strong faith, and enduring love for classical music, even in his final days.
A respected figure in Welsh education, Goronwy had been a teacher for 40 years, including 28 years as a headteacher. “Every day at Heath Hospital in Cardiff, someone would stop me to ask about Dad. He probably taught them at some point. He made a huge impact on education here,” Gethin recalled.
He also thanked the NHS for the care they provided, highlighting his sister’s role within the health service and calling her “amazing.”
On Thursday, Gethin was spotted in Cheshire heading to the gym, phone in hand, after what has undoubtedly been an emotional week. Messages of condolence poured in from fans and celebrity friends, including Sir Chris Hoy, Russell T Davies, and his The One Show co-host Alex Jones, who wrote in Welsh: “Thinking of you, Geth. Loads of love to you all.”
