The family of 14-year-old Lilly Jones, found dead in woodland, has remembered her as a "beautiful, kind and caring little girl" who was "completely and utterly herself."
Lilly was reported missing from her home in Blaina, Blaenau Gwent, on June 20. Her body was discovered in Duffryn Park two days later. A 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with her murder and appeared in court last week.
A preliminary inquest hearing indicated that the teenager's cause of death was multiple stab wounds.
"As a family, the word 'heartbroken' doesn't come close to how we feel," her family stated, emphasizing their desire for Lilly to be remembered for her vibrant personality. They highlighted her "eclectic taste in music," spanning artists like My Chemical Romance and Kate Bush, and recalled how she "absolutely unapologetically sang every word on the top of her voice, no matter who's listening."
Her family added, "Lilly is the most beautiful, kind and caring little girl we had the privilege to call our daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend." They noted her acceptance of all types of people and her advocacy for others. The loss of Lilly has left an "unimaginable hole" in their lives and the wider community, for which they expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and donations.