‘Sleep tight Santa’: Tributes to Leeds town’s beloved Father Christmas after his ‘sudden’ death
“Gary gave so much to theatre, to his community and to everyone around him.” 🕊️
Tributes have been paid to a “champion of amateur theatre” after his sudden death.
The passing of Gary Holmes, who was well known as Yeadon Town Hall’s “wonderful” Father Christmas, was met by an outpouring of love on social media.
A retired firefighter, Gary had been rehearsing for this year’s festive show when he was taken ill outside the venue in the Leeds town.
In a post on Facebook, Yeadon Town Hall’s official page announced the sad news: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the sudden passing of our dear friend, Gary Holmes, who sadly died yesterday outside Yeadon Town Hall Theatre.
“For many people in recent years, Gary was best known as our wonderful Father Christmas, and before that, as the much loved Dame in our pantomimes. Gary was a huge part of the Yeadon Town Hall Theatre family, having spent many years treading the boards and bringing laughter, joy and a little magic to audiences of all ages.
“A passionate champion of amateur theatre, Gary was also heavily involved with NODA and dedicated so much of his life to supporting the performing arts. He was also a retired firefighter, having spent many years serving his community.”
The tribute continued: “Poignantly, Gary had only just attended rehearsals for our Christmas Spectacular that very morning, something he absolutely adored being part of.
“When Gary became unwell outside the Town Hall, members of the Yeadon Town Hall team immediately came to his aid and did everything they possibly could to help him. Tragically, despite their efforts, Gary could not be saved.
“Our thoughts, love and deepest condolences are with Gary's wife Sally, his two daughters and his wider family, along with the many friends and colleagues across the amateur theatre community who knew and loved him.”
Yeadon Town Hall added: “Gary gave so much to theatre, to his community and to everyone around him. His warmth, enthusiasm and unmistakable sense of fun will be sorely missed.
“Thank you, Gary, for the laughter, the memories and the magic; though the stage will be quieter without you, the joy you brought to so many will never be forgotten.
“Rest in peace, Gary. With love from everyone at Yeadon Town Hall Theatre.”
In reply, one person wrote: “Let me share a funny memory of Gary. We were in Yeadon Panto together, Aladdin, me as Abanazar, Gary as Widow Twanky. One of my songs was One Night In Bangkok.
“On the last performance we all exchanged silly gifts as you do. Gary presented me with what I thought was a wrapped large bar of chocolate . "Oh, great", I thought "I'll have that when I get home".
“When I unwrapped it, it was a guidebook of Thailand, just in case I ever went to Bangkok! The King Of Banter to the end, he'd come onto the Cafe and say something hilarious (usually at my expense). Then the cry would go up, "Nurse, he's out of bed again!"
“Rest easy mate, and we'll have a Fanta for you. It was a joy to know you.”
Another added: “Gary truly was one of a kind, with a personality and spirit that could light up any room and a way of putting a smile on everyone’s face.
“The outpouring of love, thoughts and memories being shared is a true testament to the number of lives and hearts he touched. His legacy will live on through the countless memories he leaves behind, and he will never be forgotten.
“It was a real privilege to have shared the stage with such a true legend. My heartfelt thoughts and love go out to Sally and the whole family during this incredibly difficult time.
“Sleep tight, Santa. Thank you for the smiles, the memories and the magic. You will be so dearly missed.”
Ilkley Musical Theatre Society also paid tribute to Gary. They wrote: “We are shocked and incredibly saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of our President, but more importantly, our friend, Gary Holmes.
“Gary has been involved onstage and off with IMTS for a number of years alongside his wife, taking on the role of “El Presidente” almost two years ago.
“We will miss his warm heart, his support, and his wonderful humour. We send our love and support to his loved ones.”