Only Fools and Horses’ John Challis’ widow left ‘weeping’ over heartbreaking discovery at actor’s grave
The widow of Only Fools and Horses star John Challis has shared her emotional response to discovering Christmas decorations left at his grave by members of the local community.
The beloved actor, best known for playing Boycie in the iconic BBC comedy series, died in 2021 aged 79 after a battle with cancer.
Carol Challis found a wreath, flowers and a small Christmas tree adorning her late husband’s final resting place at the cemetery in Leintwardine, Herefordshire.
The touching festive tribute was placed by residents associated with Wigmore Abbey, where the couple had lived before his death.
The decorations were discovered during the Christmas period, prompting Carol to share her heartfelt reaction on social media.
In an emotional post on social media, Carol wrote: “I’ve just had a little weep. The people at Wigmore Abbey, Steve, Andrea and Victoria went to see John early this morning and left all this Christmas loveliness for him. Never forgotten, Challis.”
In another poignant social media message, Carol reflected on loved ones missed during the festive season.
“Especially over Christmas, my thoughts have been with my much loved and missed mother Libby, father Denis, nephew Simon and my darling husband. All gone. All those memories,” she wrote.
The emotional tribute came as Carol continues to honour the memory of her husband, who she married in 1995.
His family announced at the time that he died “peacefully in his sleep” and would “always be loved for being ‘Boycie’.”
The day after Challis’ funeral, Carol posted pictures of the celebration. She wrote: “We gave my lovely man a good send off yesterday. In the pouring rain, so I’m sharing these pics with you, if you don’t mind.”
The bereaved wife shared images of her late husband’s wicker coffin complete with a red flash, referencing Challis’ lifelong adoration for Arsenal Football Club.
The casket was touchingly topped with a flat cap which Carol revealed was: “Something he wore all the time!”
Challis’ headstone bears a special connection to Only Fools and Horses, featuring the inscription: “John Challis – actor – 1942-2021, I am here.”
The phrase references a memorable scene from the show where psychic Elsie Partridge conducts a séance with Del Boy, Rodney and Boycie present.
In the scene, Elsie claims to contact a spirit seeking someone named “Audrey… no, Aubrey,” to which Boycie responds “I am here,” revealing Aubrey as his middle name.
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I’ve just had a little weep.The people at Wigmore Abbey,Steve,Andrea and Victoria went to see John early this morning and left all this Christmas loveliness for him,Never forgotten,Challis. pic.twitter.com/1VPNzKwnJa
— Carol Challis (@BeingBoycie) December 25, 2024
“You never said your name was Aubrey,” Trigger, before he adds: “Nor would you if your name was Aubrey.”
Sir David Jason, who played Del Boy, later revealed how quickly John’s health had declined, saying: “He went downhill so fast, very rapidly, that one minute we were thinking he was on the road to recovery.”