Jade Damarell Husband & Boyfriend: Her Life and Love Story
In the wake of a heartbreaking tragedy, Jade Damarell’s story has captured the attention of many, with people seeking to understand more about her life, her passions, and her relationships. On April 27, 2025, Jade, a 32-year-old accomplished skydiver from Caerphilly, South Wales, lost her life in a skydiving incident in Shotton Colliery, County Durham.
An inquest held on August 22, 2025, revealed that her death was a deliberate act, following the end of her eight-month relationship with her boyfriend, Ben Goodfellow, the night before. As we explore Jade’s world, her connection with Ben, and the context of her vibrant life, this article aims to provide clarity, compassion, and insight into who Jade was, both in her personal relationships and her public persona. Let’s dive into her story with empathy and care, piecing together what’s known about her boyfriend and the life she led.
Jade Damarell’s Relationship with Ben Goodfellow
Jade Damarell was in a relationship with boyfriend Ben Goodfellow, a 26-year-old fellow skydiver, for approximately eight months before her passing. The couple shared a deep bond, rooted in their mutual love for skydiving, an adrenaline-fueled sport that defined much of their lives. They were described as inseparable, spending much of their time together at the airfield, training, and jumping from planes.
Their relationship was intense and fast-moving, with the pair living together in a rented property near the skydiving facility in County Durham since Christmas of the previous year. This shared passion and close proximity made their connection a central part of Jade’s daily life.
The night before Jade’s final jump, Ben ended their relationship, a decision that, according to the inquest, deeply affected her. Friends noted that while Jade had ended things with Ben a few times previously, this was the first instance where he initiated the breakup. The timing of this event was significant, as Jade wrote heartfelt notes on her phone at 2:30am that morning, addressing her family and expressing gratitude.
While Ben provided a brief statement at the inquest confirming the breakup, no further details about the reasons behind their split were shared publicly. Ben, described as a quiet individual, was reportedly devastated by Jade’s death, and the skydiving community rallied around both families in the aftermath.
Who is Jade Damarell’s Husband?
Jade Damarell did not have a current husband; she was divorced at the time of her tragic death in April 2025.
She married Leeds-based solicitor James Damarell in October 2019, but the couple separated and divorced some time later (exact date not publicly specified). After the divorce, Jade moved to lodgings near a skydiving center in County Durham and began a relationship with fellow skydiver Ben Goodfellow, which lasted about eight months and ended the day before her death.
Jade Damarell, a 32-year-old experienced skydiver and marketing manager originally from Wales, died on April 27, 2025, after deliberately not deploying her parachute during a jump. An inquest in August
Who Is Ben Goodfellow?
Ben Goodfellow, Jade’s former boyfriend, is more than just a figure in this tragic story. He is a 26-year-old skydiver with a passion for the sport, much like Jade. Beyond skydiving, Ben works as a technician at Nissan, showcasing a practical side to his adventurous spirit.
He is also the lead singer and guitarist for Post Rome, a Sunderland-based indie band, adding a creative dimension to his life. Posts on social media platforms highlight that Post Rome canceled a performance shortly after Jade’s passing, citing unforeseen circumstances, which suggests the profound impact her death had on Ben and those around him.
Ben’s involvement in skydiving brought him and Jade together, creating a shared world of high-flying adventures. Their relationship was built on this common ground, with friends noting that they spent most of their time together, often to the exclusion of others. While Ben has largely remained out of the public eye since the inquest, his role as Jade’s boyfriend has drawn attention due to the timing of their breakup and the events that followed. It’s important to approach this topic with sensitivity, recognizing that Ben, like Jade’s family, is grieving a significant loss.
Jade’s Life: A Passion for Adventure
To understand Jade Damarell’s story, we need to look beyond her relationship and into the vibrant life she led. Jade was a highly skilled skydiver with over 500 jumps to her name, a testament to her expertise and love for the sport.
Born in Caerphilly, South Wales, she was a marketing manager for Silver Spoon, a role that showcased her professional drive after graduating from Leeds University. She was also training for her pilot’s license, further highlighting her adventurous spirit and determination to soar—both literally and figuratively.
Jade’s life was filled with achievement and a zest for living on the edge. Her family described her as “brilliant, beautiful, brave, and truly extraordinary,” a person who lived with kindness, generosity, and freedom. Her mother, Elizabeth Samuel, spoke of Jade’s ability to touch countless lives, a sentiment echoed by the skydiving community that embraced her.
Jade’s commitment to skydiving wasn’t just a hobby; it was a lifestyle that brought her joy and a sense of purpose. She was a familiar face at the airfield, often seen smiling and relaxed, even on the morning of her final jump, where colleagues noted her calm demeanor as she ate toast at the base café.
Jade’s Online Presence: A Window into Her World
Jade’s online presence, particularly on platforms like Facebook, offered glimpses into her adventurous life and vibrant personality. Her social media posts often showcased her skydiving experiences, capturing the thrill of freefall and the beauty of the skies. These posts painted a picture of a woman who embraced life fully, sharing moments of joy with her followers.
Friends and family frequently commented on her posts, celebrating her courage and infectious energy. Her online persona was one of confidence and passion, reflecting the same qualities that made her a beloved figure in her community.
After her passing, Jade’s family used social media to honor her memory, sharing tributes that highlighted her impact. Her mother’s heartfelt words described Jade as a star that “burned through her time too quickly,” a metaphor that resonated with many who followed her story online.
The family also set up a GoFundMe page to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation UK, a cause that aligned with Jade’s generous spirit. This online effort not only kept Jade’s memory alive but also encouraged conversations about mental health, a topic her family has been vocal about since her death.
The Breakup and Its Aftermath
The end of Jade’s relationship with Ben Goodfellow was a pivotal moment, as detailed in the inquest. The coroner, Dr. Leslie Hamilton, concluded that Jade’s decision to not deploy her parachute or activate her safety device was a deliberate act, influenced by the emotional weight of the breakup.
Notes found on her phone, written hours before her jump, provided insight into her state of mind, expressing love and gratitude to her family while apologizing for her choice. These messages underscored the personal turmoil she faced, even as she appeared calm and composed to those around her that morning.
The skydiving community and investigators confirmed that Jade’s equipment was fully functional, ruling out any mechanical failure. The absence of drugs or alcohol in her system further supported the coroner’s findings that her actions were intentional.
This tragedy has sparked discussions about the emotional challenges even the most outwardly confident individuals may face, highlighting the importance of mental health support. Jade’s family has since expressed a desire to share her story openly, hoping to reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help when needed.
Jade’s Legacy and Mental Health Awareness
Jade’s story extends beyond her relationship with Ben Goodfellow, touching on broader themes of mental health and community support. Her family, particularly her parents, Liz and Andrew Samuel, have chosen to speak candidly about her death, emphasizing that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of how strong or successful they appear.
Liz’s decision to complete a tandem skydive in Jade’s honor was a powerful tribute, symbolizing the courage and love that defined her daughter’s life.
The GoFundMe campaign for Make-A-Wish Foundation UK reflects Jade’s legacy of generosity and her family’s commitment to turning their loss into something positive. The skydiving community has also played a significant role, offering support and sharing memories of Jade’s contributions to the sport. Her story has prompted conversations online and in person about the importance of checking in on loved ones, even those who seem to have it all together.
Separating Fact from Speculation
Given the sensitive nature of Jade’s story, it’s crucial to stick to verified information. The inquest provided clear details about her relationship with Ben Goodfellow and the events leading to her death. While some online discussions have speculated about the dynamics of their breakup or Ben’s role, these lack substantiation and can add unnecessary pain to those grieving. For example, some posts on social media platforms have suggested strong opinions about the breakup, but these are not backed by official reports and should be approached cautiously.
What we know is that Jade and Ben shared a passionate relationship centered on skydiving, which ended the night before her final jump. The inquest confirmed that Jade’s actions were her own, with no evidence of foul play or coercion. Focusing on these facts helps honor Jade’s memory and respects the privacy of those involved, including Ben, who has largely stayed out of the public eye since the tragedy.
Jade’s Impact on Those Around Her
Jade Damarell was more than a skydiver or someone’s boyfriend’s partner; she was a daughter, friend, and inspiration. Her family’s tributes paint a picture of a woman who lived life to the fullest, whether she was soaring through the skies or pursuing her career.
Her previous marriage to a Leeds-based solicitor, James Damarell, marked an earlier chapter of stability, but her connection with Ben Goodfellow brought a new intensity tied to their shared love for adventure.
Her death has left a void in the skydiving community, where she was known for her skill and warmth. Colleagues recalled her as someone who brought positivity to the airfield, even on her final day. The outpouring of support from friends, family, and even strangers online underscores the impact she had.
By sharing her story, Jade’s family hopes to inspire others to embrace life as fully as she did while also seeking help when facing personal struggles.
Conclusion
Jade Damarell’s life was a testament to courage, passion, and the pursuit of adventure. Her relationship with Ben Goodfellow, though a significant part of her story, was just one facet of a life filled with remarkable achievements and connections. As we reflect on her journey, it’s clear that Jade was a woman who inspired those around her, from the skies above County Durham to the online spaces where her vibrant spirit shone through.
Her family’s efforts to promote mental health awareness and support causes like Make-A-Wish UK ensure that her legacy endures.
For those seeking answers about Jade’s boyfriend, the facts are straightforward: she was in an eight-month relationship with Ben Goodfellow, a fellow skydiver, which ended the night before her tragic death on April 27, 2025.
Beyond this, Jade’s story is one of resilience, love, and the importance of community. Let’s honor her by celebrating the life she lived and supporting the conversations about mental health that her family bravely champions.
