Sam Branson, the 40-year-old son of Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson, has brought a poignant moment of joy to his family this Christmas. Following the recent death of his mother, Joan Templeman, Sam introduced a new pet dog named Luna as a touching tribute to her memory.
A Heartfelt Gesture in a Time of Grief
Taking to his Facebook page over the festive period, the singer and actor shared a lovely picture of the new puppy. He explained the deeply sentimental reasoning behind the pet's name, which was inspired by his mother's cherished saying. Joan Templeman passed away last month at the age of 80, after 50 years as Sir Richard's partner and 36 years of marriage.
"My mum used to always say 'I love you to the moon and back!'" Sam wrote in his emotional post. "And so I thought I’d surprise my clan with a little bundle of joy, named in her honour this Christmas." He welcomed the puppy to the family with the words, "Welcome to the family Luna!"
The Family's First Christmas Without Joan
The Branson family put on a brave face during their first festive season without their matriarch. Sam also shared a lighter moment on Instagram, posting a photo of his children's 'Elves on the Shelf' after they mischievously filled a toilet with cereal, captioned simply, "Merry Christmas everyone."
Sir Richard Branson, 76, has also been openly mourning his wife. Last week, he marked what would have been their 36th wedding anniversary with a poignant tribute on Instagram. He shared a series of photos of the couple laughing together, taken just months before Joan's death. Sir Richard described Joan as his "best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world."
A Legacy of Love and Family
In his anniversary post, Sir Richard noted the date was doubly significant, as it also marked the wedding day of their daughter, Holly Branson, 43, and the birth of her twins, Etta and Artie—Joan's grandchildren. He fondly remembered their wedding day and a recent photo from Joan's 80th birthday celebration this year.
Sam concluded his own Christmas message with words of comfort for others experiencing loss. "For those that are missing loved ones, sending you a big hug from my heart to yours," he wrote. "They are with us in spirit. Big big love to you all." The arrival of Luna the puppy serves as a living, breathing memorial to a beloved mother and wife, symbolising a love that reaches "to the moon and back."
