“She will always be remembered not for the violence inflicted upon her, but for her bravery, her protective instinct, and the ultimate sacrifice she made for others”
Abigail Neep South West Regional News Reporter
12:58, 07 May 2026Updated 13:03, 07 May 2026
Joanne, ‘Jo’ Shaw(Image: Supplied by the family / Avon and Somerset Police)
The family of a Bristolian mum killed in an explosion have paid tribute to their ‘bubbly’ and ‘heroic’ Jo.
Joanne Shaw, known to many as Jo, was killed on Sunday (May 3) in a house explosion at Sterncourt Road in Frenchay.
Her ex-partner Ryan Kelly, who also died in the blast, is believed to have broken in and detonated an explosive device.
Jo’s family said she “leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will never be forgotten” and will be remembered “not for the violence inflicted upon her, but for her bravery, her protective instinct, and the ultimate sacrifice” she made to save her child.
Their emotional statement shared by police today said: “Joanne brought warmth, kindness, and strength into the lives of countless people.
“Her loving presence will be missed more than words can ever express, but her memory will forever remain in our hearts.”
Jo’s family have asked for their privacy to be respected but want the world to know how much the 35-year-old meant to them all.
They said: “Her child has suffered the unimaginable loss of their mummy in this tragedy. Joanne’s love for her child was boundless, and the centre of her world. She was a devoted and loving mother.
“Joanne grew up in Stapleton, where she lived her whole life and became well known in the community for her bubbly, friendly personality. She welcomed everyone into her life with open arms and the biggest heart.
“Joanne loved meeting new people, listening to their stories, sharing advice, and forming genuine connections wherever she went; a number of these resulted in eternal friendships.
“Her infectious laugh could fill a room and light up everyone’s world. Life and soul not only of the party, but our lives.
“She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will never be forgotten.”
A neighbour previously told how Jo instructed her child to play outside on the trampoline when an argument broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The family shared this image of much-loved Jo(Image: Supplied by the family / Avon and Somerset Police)
The family’s tribute added: “Joanne’s actions were nothing short of heroic. She showed extraordinary strength, selflessness, and love in the face of unimaginable fear, placing herself between danger and those she loved.
“She will always be remembered not for the violence inflicted upon her, but for her bravery, her protective instinct, and the ultimate sacrifice she made for others.
“We ask for privacy at this deeply difficult time as we mourn our tragic loss. Joanne will always be in our memories, our thoughts, and our hearts.
“We love you forever, sweetheart. Mummy, I miss you and love you so much.”
Avon and Somerset Police are treating the cause of the explosion as deliberate and Jo’s death has been recorded as a homicide enquiry.
Officers say they are not looking for anyone else in connection with her death.