A ONE minute silence as held in Colwyn Bay to remember one of its most famous - and funniest - sons.
Monty Python actor, comedian and television presenter Terry Jones died aged 77 on Tuesday, January 21 after an “extremely brave but always good humoured battle” with Frontotemporal Dementia.
As well as starring in front of the camera, Jones also directed some of the comedy troupe’s most-loved works, including Life Of Brian and the Holy Grail.
A statement on behalf of his family said: “We are deeply saddened to have to announce the passing of beloved husband and father, Terry Jones.
“Terry passed away on the evening of 21 January 2020 at the age of 77 with his wife Anna Soderstrom by his side.
“Over the past few days his wife, children, extended family and many close friends have been constantly with Terry as he gently slipped away at his home in North London.”
Despite his success - which saw Jones earn a Lifetime Achievement award at the BAFTA Cymru Awards - and moving from Colwyn Bay at an early age, Jones maintained close links with the town, becoming patron of Theatr Colwyn and cutting the ribbon for the historic venues reopening in 2011 after a long renovation.
A spokesperson for the theatre said; “The whole team here at Theatr Colwyn are deeply saddened to hear the news of Terry Jones’ passing. Terry was a wonderful and supportive patron and it was always a pleasure to welcome him to the theatre, in a town he was proud to be associated with.
“We send our love and condolences to Terry’s family and friends. Terry will always be remembered with great affection by all the staff, volunteers and patrons of Theatr Colwyn. On Wednesday evening, in his memory, we dimmed the lights for one minute prior to the screening.”
A function room in the nearby Station pub also was named in honour of the Python - who was well known for his proclivity of performing in drag - and currently serves as home one of the town’s regular comedy events Stand-up at the Seaside.
Event founder and Colwyn Bay comedian Dave Rothnie said: “I’m very sad to hear of the passing of Terry Jones and my thoughts are with his family. He was both a comedy genius and a local hero.”
His other credits include The Wind In The Willows, with performances from Eric Idle, Michael Palin, and John Cleese, comedy Absolutely Anything and Personal Services.
He took part in a reunion of remaining Monty Python members in 2014 – Graham Chapman had died of cancer in 1989.
He had two children with Alison Telfer, who he married in 1970, and became a father again, at the age of 67, with second wife Soderstrom.
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