THE life of a pub landlady who died unexpectedly earlier this month will be celebrated at her funeral this Friday (March 1), her family have announced.

Grandmother-of-five Judith Ramsden was found dead at the Gate House pub beside Monmouth’s historic Monnow Bridge early on the morning of Saturday, February 9.

Police spent a large part of the day investigating the 65-year-old landlady’s death at the 200-year-old pub, but have since said they are not treating it as suspiciopus.

The Gwent coroner opened an inquest on Friday, February 15, which was adjourned for three months pending further pathology tests and police inquiries.

Her family, who have reopened the pub in tribute to Mrs Ramsden, have invited friends and pub regulars to celebrate her life at Langstone Vale Crematorium this Friday at 11.30am.

A reception afterwards at the riverside pub she ran with husband Philip for 22 years will see them raise a glass for a “little libation darlings” in tribute to the popular landlady.

They have asked for donations in lieu of flowers for Meningitis Now in honour of mum-of-two Mrs Ramsden and her beloved eldest grandson Owen Alexander, who passed away at the age of three.

The family said in a statement on the pub’s Facebook page: “Since the sudden passing of Jude/Mum/Mamma, we’ve all been struggling with a multitude of emotions.

“It’s impossible to believe she’s not going to walk through the door with her arms full of shopping bags or simply light up a room with her smile, vibrancy and energy.

“Her passing was so sudden, tragic and unexpected. It has completely rocked our entire world as we knew it, leaving a void in our hearts that can’t ever be filled.

“Her endless lists of ‘to do’ are still there waiting to be ticked off. Our questions are left unanswered.”

“The comforting words and kind thoughts sent, and the presence and love of so many who truly cared about her has been overwhelming.

“It has been such a great comfort to us as a family and we thank you so much for offering us your warmth, concern and affection during this time of grieving.

“Processing what has happened to our beloved Mamma has emotionally drained us all. We feel devastated, empty and lost.

“We are trying our best to muster the strength to face living our lives without her and begin healing, if it is at all possible.

“Also we would like to express our thanks again for the cards, beautiful flowers and gifts, the kind words and thoughts are such a great comfort and warmth in this darkness and these most difficult of days.

“We sincerely appreciate it from the bottom of our hearts. Phil, Westley, Kate, Joshua, Alex, Silas, Christopher, Charlotte and Emily.”

They have also requested that anyone with photos or stories they would like to post and share would be gratefully received.

She is survived by husband Philip, daughter Alexandrea and Silas, son Westley and Kate, grandchildren Christopher, Charlotte, Emily, and Joshua.

Meningitis Now donations may be made on the day or donated to the Judith Ramsden/Owen Alexander Jakeway JustGiving page.