Tributes to GB footballer Gemma Wiseman, 33, who ‘brought laughter everywhere’

Friends and teammates have paid tribute to former Team GB footballer Gemma Wiseman after her death at the age of 33.

Ms Wiseman guided her team to secure a bronze medal in the Deaf World Cup in Italy in 2016, with her wife and teammate Laura Wiseman.

She also won medals for England and Team GB, including bronze at the 2013 Deaflympics in Bulgaria.

Ms Wiseman was found dead on 16 December in a woodland on the outskirts of Rackheath, Norwich. She has been remembered as a “truly special” athlete with “a great sense of humour” in tributes paid online.

More than £7,600 has been raised via a GoFundMe page to help go towards her funeral costs.

A statement posted on the fundraising site said: “On December 16, 2023, Gemma sadly took her own life. Her family and friends are absolutely devastated.

‘”Gemma was a kind and caring person with a great sense of humour. Everywhere she went she brought laughter and energy with her and easily made friends with anyone who was lucky enough to meet her.

“Gemma leaves behind her devoted wife, Laura, and three-year-old daughter who are at a complete loss without her.

“We are kindly asking for donations to help pay for Gemma’s funeral and give her the send-off she truly deserves. So, if you are able to donate anything at all this would be hugely appreciated.

“Laura is extremely grateful for everyone’s help and support at this difficult time.

“It’s ok to not be ok.”

Lucindha Lawson, a team-mate of Ms Wiseman’s, posted a tribute to her on Instagram, where she described her as “one of the most wonderful human beings – funny, caring, and truly special”.

Others commented messages of condolence on the fundraising page.

“So sad to hear this,” wrote one well-wisher. “I didn’t know Gemma but recognise her from the Deaf festival. I remember Gemma and Laura bringing Allie to the bear clinic to get some hearing aids for her bear.”

Another added: “I’m so sorry to read this. We worked together back in 2014 for Break. Gemma had the sweetest kindest soul. We then saw each other on Sunday mornings as our little girls played football together.

“A happy, friendly face I would see now and again. So so sorry. Rest in peace lovely lady.”

In 2016, Manchester United footballer turned pundit Gary Neville donated £20,000 to help the men’s and women’s deaf football teams secure the the 2017 Deaflympics.

He made the donation when he discovered that both the Premier League and the FA had neglected to offer financial support for Britain’s deaf sides.

Ms Wiseman was born on 28 January, 1990 in Plymouth, Devon. Alongside her career on the pitch, she worked as a teaching assistant.

An inquest into her death was opened and adjourned on Thursday at Norfolk Coroner’s Court at County Hall. It will resume to determine the cause of death on 29 July.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, or are struggling with your mental health in other ways, you can contact The Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email [email protected].