On Monday, during a deeply emotional tribute at his funeral, Meredith Gaudreau revealed that she and her late husband, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, were expecting their third child.
The announcement came as a poignant moment in an already heart-wrenching service.
A Shocking Revelation
Meredith’s revelation about their growing family took many by surprise.
She shared that she and Johnny had created a “family of five” before the tragic accident that claimed his life, along with his brother Matthew’s, in New Jersey on August 29.
The brothers were struck by an alleged drunk driver while riding their bikes.
Support from Fellow Widows
Following the funeral, Meredith received heartfelt support from Kristen Hayes, the widow of late NHL star Jimmy Hayes.
Kristen praised Meredith’s bravery in speaking at the service and shared her own struggles in similar circumstances. Meredith responded with gratitude, acknowledging the difficult position they both share.
Cherishing the Memories
Johnny, who married Meredith in September 2021, leaves behind his wife and their two young children: one-year-old Noa and baby Johnny, born just six months ago.
In her moving eulogy, Meredith reflected on their short but precious time together, describing their growing family as a profound blessing despite the tragic circumstances.
A Sudden Loss
The Gaudreau brothers were involved in a fatal bike collision the night before their sister’s wedding.
The accident, which occurred on August 29, led to the arrest of Sean Higgins, the alleged drunk driver, who faces multiple charges including death by auto.
A Community United in Grief
The funeral service, held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, drew a large crowd of mourners, including members of the Columbus Blue Jackets and the broader hockey community.
A private viewing was held the previous day.
Tributes and Support
During the service, both Meredith and Matthew’s widow, Madeline Gaudreau, paid tribute to their late husbands, recounting their close bond and dedication to family.
Madeline, who is expecting their son, Tripp, in December, shared how inseparable the brothers were.
Financial and Emotional Support
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been set up to support the Gaudreau family.
By Tuesday morning, over $754,000 had been raised.
Fans and community members have also organized candlelight vigils in Columbus and Calgary to honor the brothers.
Legal Proceedings and Future Steps
Sean Higgins made a virtual appearance at his pretrial hearing on Thursday, which has been postponed to September 13.
He faces charges including death by auto, reckless driving, and other offenses.
His attorneys have yet to make further statements, citing the ongoing legal process.
Lasting Tributes
Tributes to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau include a special remembrance at Nationwide Arena in Columbus and a memorial with bagpipes in Calgary.
Lewis Gross, the brothers’ agent, expressed his enduring commitment to their memory, emphasizing the profound impact they had on his life.