Tributes are pouring in for the hard-working and well-respected deputy lord mayor of Swansea, Cllr Wendy Fitzgerald, who has passed away after a brief illness. Serving as a councillor for Penllergaer for nearly 21 years, Cllr Fitzgerald was described as a dedicated advocate for her community. She breathed her last at her residence, surrounded by loved ones, prompting flags outside the Guildhall to be lowered to half-mast in her honour. Council leader Rob Stewart expressed his sorrow at the news, highlighting Cllr Fitzgerald’s commitment to the people of Penllergaer and acknowledging her significant contributions.
Originally from north Cornwall, Cllr Fitzgerald, 81, alongside her husband Tony, settled in Swansea where they raised their two children. She had a thriving English-language teaching business for two decades, involving regular trips to Stockholm, Sweden. Elected as a Swansea councillor in 2004, Cllr Fitzgerald went on to serve as the cabinet member for social services as part of a ruling coalition. Known for her candour and unwavering dedication to Penllergaer, Cllr Fitzgerald made a lasting impact in council meetings, where her presence was revered by colleagues.
Cllr Chris Holley of the Swansea Liberal Democrats lamented Cllr Fitzgerald’s passing, highlighting her exceptional service to the Penllergaer community. Her impending role as Swansea’s lord mayor in 2025, a position she was eagerly anticipating, underscored her commitment to public service. Her husband, Mr Fitzgerald, expressed how fitting it would have been for her to assume the role of lord mayor, given her tireless work ethic and passion for her constituents. The Penllergaer Village Community also paid tribute to Cllr Fitzgerald’s warm and caring nature, acknowledging the impact she had on the village she dearly loved.
Lord mayor of Swansea, Cllr Paxton Hood-Williams, extended his condolences to Cllr Fitzgerald’s family and friends, acknowledging her as one of Swansea’s most esteemed councillors. Her legacy of service and dedication to the community was highlighted by various political leaders across party lines. Cllr Lyndon Jones of Swansea Conservatives remembered Cllr Fitzgerald as a relentless advocate for her constituents, while the community recognised her as a remarkable figure whose absence will be keenly felt. The outpouring of grief and admiration for Cllr Fitzgerald’s unwavering commitment reflects the profound impact she had on Swansea and its residents.
The sudden passing of Cllr Wendy Fitzgerald has left a significant void in Swansea’s political landscape, with her absence marking the end of an era for Penllergaer and the wider community. Her years of service, marked by integrity, compassion, and a deep-rooted sense of duty, have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those she served. As Swansea mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant, the memory of Cllr Fitzgerald’s unwavering commitment to her constituents will endure as a testament to her extraordinary legacy.