The father of April Jones, the five-year-old girl whose 2012 murder shocked the nation, has died suddenly at the age of 55. Paul Jones, who had battled a brain disease since 2018, passed away on 13 May 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by tragedy, strength, and tireless advocacy.

His death has sparked an outpouring of grief across the UK, particularly in Machynlleth, Wales, where the Jones family’s story remains etched in the community’s heart.

A Life Shaped by Unimaginable Loss

In October 2012, Paul’s daughter April Jones was abducted near her home, triggering the largest missing person search in UK history. The months-long operation captivated the nation. In 2013, Mark Bridger was convicted of April’s murder, though her body was never found.

Despite the devastating loss, Paul and his wife Coral Jones became symbols of courage and resilience, continuing to advocate for child safety and support for grieving families.

Battling Illness and Memory Loss

In 2018, Paul was diagnosed with encephalitis, a brain disease that severely affected his memory. According to The Independent, he had to relearn about April’s death, with Coral using photos to help him remember their daughter.

This cruel twist added a fresh layer of grief to an already painful chapter, but Paul remained committed to honouring April’s memory and campaigning for change.

A Voice for Child Protection and Online Safety

In the years following April’s death, Paul worked closely with organisations like the NSPCC, Missing People, and the Internet Watch Foundation, advocating for:

• Stricter controls on the online use of children’s images
• Improved systems for locating missing children, such as Child Rescue Alert
• Resources for families dealing with the trauma of child loss

He also called on potential abusers to seek help before causing harm, showing empathy even in the face of personal tragedy.

Community in Mourning

Paul’s stepdaughter Jazz Jones confirmed his passing on social media, writing:

“It is with broken hearts that my brother and I wish to let people know our dad passed away early this morning.”

Family friend Allan Hughes described him as an “amazing man” who never stopped being April’s father. Tributes have poured in from across the UK:

“Heartbreaking news about Paul Jones. A father who never stopped fighting for justice for April.”
“Paul’s strength was inspiring. Machynlleth mourns with the Jones family.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Paul supported Victim Support, Mind, and other mental health charities. His lived experience helped shine a light on the long-term effects of grief and trauma.

He also featured in national conversations around supporting victims’ families, with recent recognition from publications such as The Sun, Mirror, and the Daily Mail.

His story has inspired calls for more comprehensive mental health services, victim advocacy funding, and support for bereaved parents.

Final Reflections

Paul Jones leaves behind not only a grieving family, but a nation that stood with him through tragedy. His determination to turn personal pain into public advocacy will remain a beacon of strength and compassion.

His wife Coral once reflected on Paul’s battle with memory loss and the day he recognised April’s face in a photograph — a bittersweet moment that symbolised their enduring bond.

“He knew she was special. He just didn’t know why,” she told The Mirror.

Now, the UK remembers Paul — not just as April’s father, but as a man who fought for change, loved without limit, and carried his daughter’s memory in everything he did.