Heartbreak as star athlete, 25, dies on overseas family holiday
- Victorian sprint star and Stawell Gift finalist Jemma Stapleton dies
- Died on family holiday
- See more on Google Daily Mail – Save us as a Preferred Source
A Stawell Gift finalist tragically passed away in Thailand while on the overseas trip of a lifetime.
Former junior athletics champion Jemma Stapleton, who finished third in the 2025 Stawell Gift, has died while on a family holiday.
A GoFundMe post on behalf of the family asking for donations to help bring his body home raised more than $84,000 as of Friday.
It turned out that the popular babysitter went abroad to celebrate her birthday with her family on June 1.
‘It is with great sadness that our beautiful friends the Stapleton family have been faced with immeasurable grief with the passing of their beautiful daughter, sister and partner Jemma while on a family holiday,’ he said at the fundraiser.
His death sparked an outpouring of emotion in the athletics world and wider society.
“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Jemma Stapleton,” the Victorian Athletic League posted on social media.
‘Jemma was a valued member of our community whose presence, character and contribution left a lasting impact on those around her.’
Jemma Stapleton tragically passed away
It remains publicly unclear how Stapleton died while enjoying a family trip.
His wife and family members paid tribute to him as they mourned his loss.
‘I cannot express the pain I feel in words. “You are the best thing that ever happened to me and I’m so grateful for the love we share,” Stapleton’s partner Tyler said.
‘Rest in peace, I love you so much. I promise to make you proud. You were my best sister and my best friend. I will miss you forever. Relax,’ his brother Joel wrote.
Athletics Australia remembered Stapleton for his performance on and off the track.
‘Jemma was a beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling. “His presence cheered up every environment he stepped into and it was truly a pleasure to know him,” he shared.
Former coach Mark Thomas has spoken of his pain when he learned of his former pupil’s death.
‘I was shocked tonight when I was told Jemma had passed away and I truly couldn’t believe it,’ he wrote.
Jemma Stapleton was a running champion
Jemma Stapleton is remembered for her lively personality off the track
‘Jemma was one of my favorite athletes I’ve ever had the pleasure of coaching and was heartbroken to leave our team, but it’s no less important with the loss of someone loved by everyone.
‘Joel I hope you are well because I know how much you love your sister and I know she loves you just as much, make her even prouder.
‘I offer my condolences to all your family for your loss and cannot imagine the pain you are experiencing.
‘RIP Jemma you will be young forever and so loved in our hearts.’
Stapleton was a beloved child care worker, and just a few weeks ago a young intern paid tribute to her for her kindness.
‘I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your support, guidance and encouragement during my placement,’ he wrote.
‘Thank you for always being so kind, supportive and friendly… The way you care for the children, the way you support the educators and the way you create such a warm and positive environment is truly so inspiring. It’s easy to see why everyone loves working with you.’
More to come.
