Vale Dave Snowdon: the much loved “Queen” of Gloucester

“EVERY once in a while, in our lifetime, if we are lucky enough, we meet someone who’s light shines so brightly that we are drawn into their presence,” said Madonna O’Brien after the recent death of well-known Gloucester identity David (Dave) Snowdon.

“I was lucky enough to have a beautiful friend, David Snowdon who brought light into my life every single day.

“The void you will leave, not just in my life, but in the lives of everyone in Gloucester, will be huge.”

Dave will be known by many as someone who brightened their Woolworths shopping experience with his friendliness, helpfulness, and his sometimes, “out there”, demeanour.

Dave was born 4 January 1961 in Gloucester as one of the three children of Ron and Yvonne Snowdon, and attended Stroud Road Public School, and then Gloucester High School before finally settling in Gloucester.

Although Dave had some significant health issues, his sudden death, just two days before his 65th birthday, was unexpected, and came as a shock to his many friends.

As reported by NOTA (7 May 2025), Dave was the brain behind Gloucester’s inaugural Bucketts of Pride Festival planned for Valentine’s Day 2026.

“I really thought it would be a great idea to celebrate the wonderful diversity of Gloucester, and I can say that festival goers will be in for a wonderful surprise, but I can say no more,” said Dave at the time.

Dave later let slip that part of the festival was to involve him riding down Gloucester’s main street in the same glittering silver stiletto that was part of the closing ceremony for the Sydney Olympics, and a prop for the stage version of “Pricilla, Queen of the Desert”.

Although Dave’s absence from the Bucketts of Pride Festival will be keenly felt, there has been no thought that it be cancelled, in fact the organisers are more determined than ever that it proceeds as a tribute to Dave and his hopes and dreams, and the stiletto will still be an important part of the event.

According to Madonna, Dave had a dream that the time would come when no child or young adult would be picked on because of their sexuality, and that bullying and non-acceptance towards the LGBTQIA+ community would cease to exist.

“Dave was so much loved by so many people and he will be much missed,” said Dave’s brother Garry.

“Gloucester will be less glittery, and way too quiet without Dave,” added Madonna.

Anyone seeking more information about the festival can contact the organisers via buckettsofpride@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.

By John WATTS