The Remarkable Life and Tragic Death of Jade Damarell
The story of Jade Damarell is both inspirational and heartbreaking. Known in her professional world as a talented marketing manager and in her personal life as a passionate skydiver, Jade lived with energy, enthusiasm, and ambition. Her sudden death in April 2025 shocked colleagues, friends, and the skydiving community across the United Kingdom. This article explores her life, career achievements, personal relationships, and the tragic circumstances of her passing, while also reflecting on her legacy.
Early Life and Education
A Foundation for Success
Jade Damarell grew up in the United Kingdom, where her bright personality and determination were evident from an early age. She pursued higher education at Leeds Metropolitan University, graduating in 2017 with a First Class BA (Hons) in Marketing. Her dedication to her studies was recognised with the Dean’s Award for the most outstanding student of the year, highlighting her exceptional talent and potential.
Academic Drive
Her academic career was defined by discipline and creativity. Jade was not only focused on grades but also on applying her knowledge practically. This blend of theory and practice prepared her for a professional life where she would quickly make her mark.
Professional Journey
Starting Out at PPG
Jade began her career with PPG Industries, where she first worked as a Marketing Assistant between 2015 and 2016. After gaining valuable experience, she was promoted to Johnstone’s Brand Manager in 2017, a role she held until 2018. These positions gave her the skills to manage brand strategy, market analysis, and customer engagement.
Progressing to XL Joinery Ltd
In 2018, she joined XL Joinery Ltd as a Brand Manager. Though her time there lasted less than a year, it was another stepping stone in shaping her ability to manage brands and develop strong market presence.
Advancing at Symington’s Limited
Jade’s career flourished when she became Senior Brand Manager at Symington’s Limited in 2019. Over two years, she managed well-known food brands and demonstrated her ability to combine creativity with business strategy.
Leadership at Associated British Foods
By late 2021, Jade achieved one of her career goals: working at Associated British Foods plc. She was appointed Marketing Manager, a prestigious role that allowed her to oversee large-scale campaigns. Colleagues remember her as hardworking, approachable, and innovative. Her career journey demonstrated resilience and determination, with each role adding to her expertise and confidence.
Passion for Skydiving
An Adventurous Spirit
While many knew Jade as a marketing professional, she was also an experienced skydiver. Skydiving was more than a hobby—it was one of her greatest passions. She completed more than 500 jumps, and friends described her as vibrant, fearless, and full of life.
Community and Lifestyle
Skydiving connected Jade to a community of thrill-seekers and adventurers. She became known for her courage and skill in the sport. It was also through skydiving that she formed close friendships and relationships, including with her partner.
Personal Life and Relationships
Marriage and Husband
Reports suggest that Jade had previously been married to James Damarell, a solicitor based in Leeds. However, their relationship ended, and they lived separate lives. While some details remain private, this part of her life shaped her personal journey.
Relationship with Ben Goodfellow
Later, Jade was in a relationship with Ben Goodfellow, a fellow skydiver who shared her passion for the sport. They met through skydiving and spent significant time together, often described as a strong and adventurous couple. Unfortunately, the relationship ended the night before her final jump. This event, deeply personal and emotional, became part of the narrative surrounding her death.
A Loving Daughter and Friend
Beyond romantic relationships, Jade was a beloved daughter to her parents, Liz and Andrew Samuel, and a loyal friend to many. Those who knew her described her as kind, warm, and someone who brought light into the lives of others.
The Tragic Death of Jade Damarell
The Final Jump
On 27 April 2025, Jade took part in a skydive over farmland near Fleming Field in Shotton Colliery, County Durham. Conditions were good, and her equipment was in working order. However, during the jump, she made no attempt to deploy her main or reserve parachute.
Inquest Findings
The inquest, led by Assistant Coroner Dr Leslie Hamilton, concluded that Jade had intentionally disabled her automatic deployment device and chose not to open her parachutes. On the balance of probabilities, the coroner recorded a verdict of suicide. Toxicology reports confirmed that no drugs or alcohol were present.
Cause of Death
A post-mortem examination revealed that Jade died of blunt trauma after impacting the ground. She had not been wearing her helmet camera that day, despite using it during previous jumps.
Reactions and Tributes
Family Statement
Her parents, Liz and Andrew Samuel, described Jade as:
“A brilliant, beautiful, brave and truly extraordinary person. A bright, adventurous free spirit, she lived with immense energy, passion and love and touched countless lives with her warmth and kindness.”
Community Grief
The skydiving community expressed sorrow at the loss of such an experienced and vibrant member. Colleagues from her professional life also shared tributes, remembering her as a dedicated marketing manager and a compassionate team member.
Legacy and Reflection
Balancing Professional and Personal Life
Jade’s life shows how one individual can excel in both career and passion. As a marketing professional, she achieved milestones that many aspire to. As a skydiver, she lived her life boldly, embracing the thrill of adventure.
The Importance of Mental Health
Her death is also a stark reminder of the importance of mental health and emotional support. Even those who appear strong and fearless can face inner struggles. Her story has encouraged many to speak more openly about mental health and to check in on friends and loved ones.
A Lasting Memory
Though her life was tragically cut short, Jade Damarell’s legacy remains. She is remembered as a marketing leader, a devoted daughter, a loving partner, and an extraordinary skydiver. Her energy and achievements continue to inspire others in both the corporate and sporting worlds.
Conclusion
The life of Jade Damarell is a story of brilliance, passion, and tragedy. From her academic excellence at Leeds Metropolitan University to her successful career at companies such as PPG, XL Joinery Ltd, Symington’s Limited, and Associated British Foods plc, she proved herself to be an outstanding professional. Away from the office, her adventurous side shone through as an experienced skydiver, where she built strong relationships and lived fearlessly.
Her relationship with Ben Goodfellow and her role as a loving daughter highlight the deep connections she had in her personal life. The circumstances of her death in April 2025 remain deeply saddening, yet her story continues to inspire conversations about ambition, courage, and mental health.
At just 32 years old, Jade Damarell left behind an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. Her life serves as both an inspiration and a poignant reminder of the complexities of human experience.
