GaynorSULLIVAN MBEGaynor passed away tragically on 8th July 2026 at hospital in Portugal, aged 75.
Born Gaynor Hopkins in Skewen on 8th June 1951, she was known professionally as Bonnie Tyler, a beloved Welsh singer whose powerful voice defined classics like "Total Eclipse of the Heart" and "Holding Out for a Hero".
She rose from local club performances to global fame, earning an MBE, Grammy nominations, and a place in music history with her iconic raspy vocals and unforgettable ballads. She is remembered as a warm, generous artist whose music touched generations and continues to fill dance floors and karaoke booths around the world.
She is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, her beloved Robert. Gaynor was a dear sister of Marlene, Angela, Avis, Paul and the late Pauline and Lynn, much loved sister-in-law of Paul & Angela, Michael & Winnie, Gwyn, Jan, Teresa, Margaret and the late Billy. A devoted and wonderful 'Aunty Gaynor' to all her nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. The cherished daughter of the late Glyndwr and Elsie Hopkins.
Resting at William Pressdee Funeralcare, Mumbles until she returns to her home, Fernhill, on Saturday 15th August at 3.30pm - those who wish to pay their respects are invited to line Newton Road, Mumbles from 3.15pm.
A Celebration of Gaynor's life will be held at Swansea Minster (St. Mary's Church) on Monday 17th August at 12noon.
Gaynor will then return to her 'hometown', and travel through Skewen at approximately 1.20pm en route to a private family service of committal and farewell.
Family flowers only please. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites donations in support of two charities of which Gaynor was a patron: Noah's Ark Children's Hospital for Wales, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XW, or to Cerebral Palsy Cymru, 1 The Courtyard, 73 Ty Glas Avenue, Llanishen, Cardiff, CF14 5DX
Donations may also be made via the online version of this notice at funeral-notices.co.uk
Her legacy lives on in the timeless songs that made her a legend.
