Article
Bonnie Tyler Fans Pay Tribute As Singer Makes Final Journey Through Hometown
17 August 2026
Large crowds took to the streets to pay their respects.
Hundreds of people in Bonnie Tyler's hometown of Skewen and beyond have lined the streets to applaud, sing and celebrate the singer as she made her final journey following her death, aged 75.
Many flowers were placed onto the bonnet of the hearse, while some of her biggest hits could be heard from nearby businesses as the procession made its way from Swansea Minster to a private family funeral.
Mayor of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Alan Lockyer - who attended the ceremony in Swansea - said:
"I have fond memories of Bonnie Tyler coming to Neath College (as it was known then) to help us with a charity event, along with her bassist, Kevin Dunn and guitarist Ray Taff Williams (from Neath). She left an impression on everyone she met.
"Whilst Bonnie/Gaynor was an internationally recognised star who performed alongside her musician friends, she considered the people she met in the street in Skewen or Mumbles as also being her friends.
"She was a genuine and caring person, and she never forgot her roots. I think 'character' is a good word to describe her. It's very hard to say goodbye."
Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Steve Hunt said:
"I think what resonated with lots of people was just how real and authentic Bonnie Tyler was. She'd do everything we did and made everyone feel welcome in her presence.
"She was a global star, but she never forgot where she came from. When she came back, she'd always want to attend local events and mix with people from her hometown.
"My thoughts go to Bonnie's family, friends and fans. She was a lovely, genuine lady who will be missed by so many people, but her legacy will long continue."