The international star who lived in Llwynderw for many years and had a huge following locally and around the world was remembered at a poignant funeral held at Swansea Minster.
The church in the heart of the city centre was the gathering place for fans who witnessed the occasion on a big screen in nearby St David’s Square as family, friends and guests assembled to pay their respects.
Attending the funeral on behalf of the people of Swansea were Lord Mayor Cllr Penny Matthews and deputy leader Cllr Andrea Harrington.
Swansea Council flew a Welsh flag at half-mast at the Guildhall as a mark of respect and a Book of Condolence online and at Y Stofa will remain open until Friday this week.
Lord Mayor Cllr Penny Matthews said: “Bonnie’s journey from South Wales to international stardom inspired generations and inspired an enormous sense of pride in Swansea and Wales.
“The funeral was an opportunity for our communities to say goodbye to one of our own and I was privileged to be there on behalf of all the people of the city.
“Bonnie’s music touched millions of people around the world, but she never lost sight of her roots. She meant so much to many people here and she always will.”
Cllr Harrington added: “Bonnie Tyler was one of Wales’ great musical ambassadors and one of the most recognisable voices in popular music.
“From South Wales clubs to worldwide success, she led a remarkable life and achieved extraordinary things while remaining a source of pride for communities across our region.
“Her songs became the soundtrack to countless lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”
Hundreds of people in Bonnie Tyler’s hometown of Skewen had 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.”
