Private Requiem Mass for Ann Widdecombe Held at Buckfast Abbey

A private requiem mass for former British politician Ann Widdecombe will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, the church has confirmed. The service follows her death on July 8, 2026, at the age of 78.

Widdecombe was found with serious injuries at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor. She was pronounced dead at the scene. A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, was charged with her murder on July 20. The investigation has recently expanded, with counter-terrorism police confirming they are looking into a connected attempted burglary incident that occurred at an address in Greater London in April 2025.

The requiem mass at Buckfast Abbey will be a private ceremony for family and close friends. The abbey has stated that the service will be conducted by the Right Reverend David Charlesworth, Abbot of Buckfast, who will deliver the homily. In a statement, the abbey noted that Widdecombe regularly worshipped at the church, participating in Sunday Solemn Mass and Holy Week services. The community described her as a "kind and warm character" and a "woman of profound faith" whose convictions were shaped by her Roman Catholic beliefs.

The abbey has requested that the press...