A private Requiem Mass was held on Tuesday at Buckfast Abbey in Devon to honour Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative minister and prominent political figure, who was found dead in her home on July 8. Widdecombe’s death followed an attack that left her with a serious head injury. Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged with her murder on July 20.

The service was attended by family, close friends, and notable clergy, including the Rt Rev David Charlesworth OSB, Abbot of Buckfast, and the Most Rev George Stack, Archbishop Emeritus of Cardiff. The gathering took place near Widdecombe’s residence on Dartmoor, where she was well known in the local community, especially at the abbey where she regularly worshipped.

During his homily, Abbot Charlesworth reflected on Widdecombe’s resilience in the public eye, noting her ability to endure criticism and personal attacks with composure. He remarked that throughout her political career, she faced disproportionate scrutiny and ridicule—often more severe than that directed at male politicians—but responded by "turning the other cheek" and maintaining a sense of humour. The abbot likened her response to adversity to the Christian model exemplified by Christ.

Widdecombe’s nephew, the Rev Roger Widdecombe, and her close friend Sir Christian Sweeting also paid tribute, while her great-niece Jem Widdecombe delivered the first Scripture reading. The Very Rev Canon Mark O’Keeffe, Dean of Plymouth Cathedral, offered prayers for Widdecombe’s eternal rest during the Intercessions, and the Rev Canon John Patrick read the Gospel.

Widdecombe was a convert to Roman Catholicism, having left the Church of England in 1993. Her faith deeply influenced her political outlook, and she was known for vocally upholding the moral and social teachings of the Catholic Church. The abbot acknowledged that her steadfastness in these views sometimes provoked controversy and remarked on the tragic irony that, though the motive for her killing remains unknown, individuals around the world have historically suffered for their religious convictions.

The Mass took place under a noticeable police presence, with officers patrolling the area around the abbey. Mourners arrived in small groups and observed moments of silence as the choir sang and bells tolled in tribute.

A public memorial for Ann Widdecombe is planned for later this year, allowing a wider circle of supporters and admirers to commemorate her life and legacy.