Gareth Brisbane, the widower of Married at First Sight expert Mel Schilling, has opened up about the family’s intimate funeral as they laid the star to rest following her tragic passing. The Australian psychologist-turned-dating expert passed away at 54 after a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind her devoted British husband and their 10-year-old daughter, Maddie.
In an emotional Instagram post, Gareth reflected on the private ceremony, which was streamed for Mel’s family back in Australia. He expressed how proud he was of Maddie, who delivered a heartfelt speech at the funeral: “Maddie announced on the morning of the funeral that she had written a little speech, which she delivered beautifully. Every inch her mother’s daughter, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Gareth continued to share his gratitude for the support the family had received since Mel’s passing, saying: “Maddie and I have drawn enormous strength from how so very loved she was and is.”
Following Mel’s wishes, the family scattered some of her ashes at the lighthouse in Gareth’s hometown of Whitehead, Northern Ireland—a place that had great significance to the late star. “It’s a special place that really resonated with her, a place where strangers say hello as you pass, and a place we can now come back to reflect on our incredible 15 years together,” Gareth wrote.
He also shared their plans to start a new chapter in Bali, where he and Maddie will soon be reunited with close friends. “No better place to heal, a place that we all loved, and where we still have some of our dearest friends who had the most wonderful blessing ceremony for Mel at our new villa last weekend.”
In a poignant tribute, Gareth revealed the photo of Mel they had chosen for her funeral—a powerful image that perfectly captured her essence: “Equal parts glam, warmth, and vulnerability, which was her all over. Love and light to you all.”
Mel tragically passed away after her cancer spread to her brain, just days after revealing that the tumor, initially removed from her colon, had metastasized to her lungs and later her brain. Despite her battle, Mel continued to work and film through her treatments, inspiring those around her with her strength, grace, and courage.
Gareth expressed his love for Mel and the impact she had on his life and their daughter’s life: “This is a woman who became a new mum and a TV star at 42—and nailed both. To most of you, she was Mel Schilling—matriarch of MAFS and queen of reality TV. To Maddie and me, she was our wee Melsie: an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate.”
In his heartfelt statement, Gareth thanked the world for the overwhelming support and love shown to his family during this difficult time.
