Jonnie Irwin’s widow explains exactly how she told their children about his passing

Jonnie Irwin’s widow has shared the emotional details of how she broke the news that their father had died to their children, revealing their emotional reactions for the first time.

The presenter of BBC One’s ‘Escape To The Country’ was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020 and sadly passed away on 2nd February 2024 aged 50. Jonnie is survived by his wife Jess and their three children, twins Rafa and Cormac. , and their older brother Rex.

In a candid interview, Jess bravely recounted the moment she had to tell her children that Jonnie, who originally came from Leicestershire, was no longer with them. She chose to speak to their eldest, Rex, before explaining the twins’ situation. Jess described how the children were naturally curious and struggled to understand the concept of death.

Jess spoke to Mail Online about the heart-wrenching conversations: ‘I told Rex first that dad had gone to heaven in the sky and he ran out of the room and hid. He said, “Why can’t he bring the space. Daddy back? Then I said to the twins, “How the angels carried him up to heaven.” It was all about small children. The conversation will change as they grow.”

Finding solace in her children’s coping mechanisms, Jess expressed how Rex uses his imagination to feel connected to his father. She said: “He showed me the sunglasses. He said he could see into space with them. “If I press this button I see dad and he lets me hear him talk. But it only works at night.” I said, “Wow, can I borrow them?”

Jess spoke about the harrowing experience of watching her husband’s health decline. In a candid admission, she revealed: ‘You hear people say, ‘He died peacefully. It was awesome,” but it wasn’t for Jonnie. It was a horrible process. I wish I would have done’ I didn’t see him, but I had to be with him, I kept saying to the nurses who were with us: “What am I doing” and they said: “You can’t stay with anything”. it.'”.

A family spokesperson announced Jonnie’s death on Instagram on February 2, saying: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing. A truly remarkable soul, she bravely fought cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched his lives. so many with his kindness, warmth and infectious spirit.”

The statement continued: “At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they work through this profound loss. Their pain is immeasurable and your thoughts, prayers and support are deeply appreciated. As we remember the good times shared. with Jonnie, let’s celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will live forever in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone, but his love, laughter and memories will live on, dear Jonnie. You will be sorely missed, but you will never be forgotten.”