In Loving Memory Of Joel Stenning: A Night To Remember
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10 November 2025
Sandra Spear
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On the 15th of August 2024, we lost our beloved son, Joel Stenning, at the age of 29. Joel was a larger-than-life character - a soppy dog lover, and someone who brought laughter to everyone around him. He had an infectious, silly personality and would always be the first to grab the microphone for karaoke. His absence is so painful to us all; life is forever different.
As a Mum, I was scared that people would forget Joel, so to honour Joel’s memory and mark what would have been his 30th birthday year, we hosted a Casino and Dance Evening on the 18th of October 2025. It was exactly the kind of night Joel would have loved - full of joy, music, dancing, and full with his closest family and friends. The room was buzzing with laughter and love, and for one special evening, we celebrated Joel in the way he lived: with warmth, fun, laughter, and a few too many to drink!
The night was filled with energy and included silent auctions, raffle prizes, a selfie mirror, casino tables, and a lively dance floor. Every detail reflected Joel’s personality. It was a chance to come together, share memories, and have Joel at the forefront of our hearts and for just a brief moment to forget about the sadness that engulfs us.
It was a celebration of Joel’s life, a moment to keep his memory alive and to support others who find themselves in similar circumstances.
Sandra, Joel’s Mum
The evening closed to the song “North London Forever”, one of Joel’s favourites and a tribute to his beloved Arsenal. It was extremely emotional but it was like receiving the biggest, tightest hug from everyone that loved Joel.
Why we chose INQUEST
In the days and weeks following Joel’s passing, we were introduced to the charity INQUEST. After just one phone call, we were connected with our caseworker who became a steady and compassionate presence during an incredibly vulnerable and traumatic time. She helped us navigate the complexities of the legal system at our most vulnerable time, with so much empathy and unwavering support.
INQUEST is the only charity in England and Wales that provides free, specialist advice to bereaved people following a state-related death. Their work is vital - and deeply personal to us.
This event was more than a fundraiser. It was a celebration of Joel’s life, a moment to keep his memory alive and to support others who find themselves in similar circumstances. Every donation, every dance, and every smile that night was for Joel - and for the families who will need INQUEST’s help in the future.
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us, donated, or supported us in any way, their kindness means more than we can begin to explain.
We managed to raise over £11K for Inquest and just hope this is useful for them in some small way.
Sandra, Joel’s Mum
Make a Donation
Every year, INQUEST supports hundreds of families bereaved by deaths involving the state. We are independent of government and entirely reliant on grants and donations to continue our vital work.
Support us and bereaved families in the fight for truth, justice and accountability by becoming a regular donor today.
Joel Stenning
On the 15th of August 2024, we lost our beloved son, Joel Stenning, at the age of 29. Joel was a larger-than-life character - a soppy dog lover, and someone who brought laughter to everyone around him. He had an infectious, silly personality and would always be the first to grab the microphone for karaoke. His absence is so painful to us all; life is forever different.
As a Mum, I was scared that people would forget Joel, so to honour Joel’s memory and mark what would have been his 30th birthday year, we hosted a Casino and Dance Evening on the 18th of October 2025. It was exactly the kind of night Joel would have loved - full of joy, music, dancing, and full with his closest family and friends. The room was buzzing with laughter and love, and for one special evening, we celebrated Joel in the way he lived: with warmth, fun, laughter, and a few too many to drink!
The night was filled with energy and included silent auctions, raffle prizes, a selfie mirror, casino tables, and a lively dance floor. Every detail reflected Joel’s personality. It was a chance to come together, share memories, and have Joel at the forefront of our hearts and for just a brief moment to forget about the sadness that engulfs us.
The evening closed to the song “North London Forever”, one of Joel’s favourites and a tribute to his beloved Arsenal. It was extremely emotional but it was like receiving the biggest, tightest hug from everyone that loved Joel.
Why we chose INQUEST
In the days and weeks following Joel’s passing, we were introduced to the charity INQUEST. After just one phone call, we were connected with our caseworker who became a steady and compassionate presence during an incredibly vulnerable and traumatic time. She helped us navigate the complexities of the legal system at our most vulnerable time, with so much empathy and unwavering support.
INQUEST is the only charity in England and Wales that provides free, specialist advice to bereaved people following a state-related death. Their work is vital - and deeply personal to us.
We are so grateful to everyone who joined us, donated, or supported us in any way, their kindness means more than we can begin to explain.
We managed to raise over £11K for Inquest and just hope this is useful for them in some small way.
Sandra, Joel’s Mum
Make a Donation
Every year, INQUEST supports hundreds of families bereaved by deaths involving the state. We are independent of government and entirely reliant on grants and donations to continue our vital work.
Support us and bereaved families in the fight for truth, justice and accountability by becoming a regular donor today.
Donate now
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