Perry Bamonte, the esteemed guitarist and keyboardist for the legendary British band The Cure, has bequeathed a substantial seven-figure sum to his widow following his untimely death at the age of 65. The musician, who passed away on Christmas Eve last year after a short illness, left his entire wealth and personal possessions to his wife, Donna Bamonte, whom he married in 2009.
Estate Details and Legal Proceedings
Donna Bamonte was named as the executor of his will, inheriting a fortune valued at £1.4 million. Perry, who resided with her in Crediton, near Exeter, Devon, had no children. The gross value of his estate was documented at £1.9 million, but after deductions, the net amount settled at £1,444,123.
According to the grant of probate document filed with the High Court of Justice, the application stated that the gross value of the estate in the United Kingdom amounts to £1,983,419 and the net value amounts to £1,444,123. Perry Bamonte, born on September 3, 1960, formalised his will on May 22, 2024.
Will Provisions and Personal Life
The will explicitly reads: 'I give all my personal chattels not otherwise specifically gifted by my will or any codicil free of inheritance tax to Donna absolutely. My trustees shall hold my residuary estate and the income thereof upon trust for Donna absolutely.'
Beyond his music career, Perry was a passionate fly-fisherman and an avid artist, dedicating time to drawing. Together with Donna, he rehabilitated and retrained racehorses, operating a 'retirement home' for them, showcasing his deep love for animals and nature.
Police Investigation and Health Revelations
Police launched an investigation into his passing after receiving a report from a family member who had been 'alarmed at something he was told'. However, Donna Bamonte vehemently dismissed the investigation as 'bulls***', asserting that her husband died of terminal bowel cancer, with no suspicious circumstances involved.
She revealed that Perry was first diagnosed with the deadly disease in 2020 and was given the all-clear a year later. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in 2024 and was diagnosed as terminal prior to his death in December. 'His doctors can confirm he was first diagnosed in 2020 and had the all-clear in 2021, but there was a recurrence in 2024,' she told The Sun. 'I have had no contact with the police since his death. This is all complete and utter nonsense.'
The Cure's Tribute and Career Highlights
The Cure's official website confirmed the sad news, stating: 'It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas.'
Described as 'quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative', Perry, affectionately known as 'Teddy', was a vital part of The Cure's history. He initially looked after the band from 1984 through 1989 before becoming a full-time member in 1990. Over 14 years, he played guitar, six-string bass, and keyboard on albums such as Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits, and The Cure, performing more than 400 shows.
After rejoining The Cure in 2022, he played another 90 shows, culminating in the 'show of a lost world' concert in London on November 1, 2024. Perry, one of five siblings, grew up in Basildon, Essex, leaving behind a legacy of musical innovation and heartfelt contributions to the iconic band.
