Widow of Only Fools and Horses’ John Challis left ‘weeping’ over heartfelt Christmas gesture at actor’s grave
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The widow of Only Fools and Horses’ John Challis was left ‘crying’ over a heartfelt gesture at the late actor’s grave.
Carol shared an update on Christmas Day, uploading a photo of a festive surprise left at the cemetery in Leintwardine, Herefordshire.
John, who was best known for his portrayal of second-hand car dealer Boycie in the BBC series, died ‘peacefully in his sleep’ in 2021 after a long battle with cancer.
His gravestone, which reads: ‘John Challis – actor – 1942-2021’ was decorated with a wreath and a small Christmas tree.
Carol admitted the “beautiful” decorations made her emotional in a candid update shared with X.
She wrote: ‘I just cried a little. The people of Wigmore Abbey, Steve, Andrea and Victoria went to John’s early this morning and left all this Christmas beauty for him. Never forget, Challis.’
The widow of Only Fools and Horses’ John Challis was left ‘crying’ over a heartfelt gesture at the late actor’s grave (pictured together in 2019)
John, best known for his portrayal of second-hand car dealer Boycie in the BBC series, died ‘peacefully in his sleep’ in 2021 after a long battle with cancer
In October 2021, Carol shared photos from the late actor’s funeral, which included a wicker coffin and his beloved cap that he “wore the entire time.”
Carol, who was married to the star for 26 years, shared the touching details of his ‘rainy’ farewell Tweet.
On the platform she wrote: ‘We gave my dear husband a proper farewell yesterday, in the pouring rain, so I’m sharing these photos with you, if you don’t mind.
‘The red flash on the reed is for the lifelong Arsenal fan and the cap was something he always wore!’
‘I would like to thank everyone who has posted such beautiful thoughts and messages of support, and for all the love shown to John.
It was overwhelming and it is a great comfort to know that he will never be forgotten.”
Following the actor’s death, Challis’ family said in a statement: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news. Our dear friend and yours, John Challis, passed away peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with cancer.
“He will always be loved for being ‘Boycie’ and leaves behind a great legacy of work that will continue to bring joy and smiles for many years to come.”
Carol shared an update on Christmas Day, uploading a photo of a festive surprise left at the cemetery in Leintwardine, Herefordshire
Carol admitted the “beautiful” decorations made her emotional in a candid update shared with X
Sir David Jason (L) as Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter and John Challis (R) as Boycie on the set of Only Fools and Horses
They continued: ‘Please respect the privacy of John’s family and friends at this difficult time, and be assured that there will be an opportunity to celebrate John’s life in the future – when all will be welcome to join us.’
“He will always be loved for being ‘Boycie’ and leaves behind a great legacy of work that will continue to bring joy and smiles for many years to come.”
Sir David Jason, who played Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter in the hit show, called Challis a “dear friend” and “great actor” and said he was pleased the star had witnessed the outpouring of admiration recently shown in occasion of the show’s 40th anniversary. first episode of the sitcom.
In a statement, Sir David said: “It is with great sadness to hear that John Challis, a dear friend, has passed away. He was a wonderful actor, a gentleman in the true sense of the word, and I know he will be missed by so many.”
“A character so beloved by the many fans of that show, so I’m glad he witnessed the outpouring of admiration recently shown on the 40th anniversary of the first episode in 1981. I send my love and condolences to his wife, Carol.”