The Cure Guitarist Perry Bamonte Leaves Substantial Estate to Wife
The music world mourns the loss of Perry Bamonte, a beloved guitarist for The Cure, who passed away on Christmas Eve last year at the age of 65 after a brief illness. Bamonte, a vital and long-standing member of the iconic band, has left behind a significant estate, with his widow, Donna Bamonte, set to inherit a substantial sum.
Court documents reveal that Perry Bamonte’s will, penned on May 22, 2024, bequeathed his entire fortune and personal effects to his wife, Donna, whom he married in 2009. As the executor of his will, Donna is now the beneficiary of a net estate valued at £1.4 million. The gross value of his estate in the United Kingdom was declared at £1,983,419, with deductions bringing the net figure to £1,444,123.
Bamonte, born Perry Archangelo Bamonte on September 3, 1960, resided in Crediton, near Exeter in Devon, with his wife. The couple had no children. His will explicitly states his wishes: “I give all my personal chattels not otherwise specifically gifted by my will or any codicil free of inheritance tax to Donna absolutely. My trustees shall hold by residuary estate and the income thereof upon trust for Donna absolutely.”
A Storied Career with The Cure
Perry Bamonte’s musical journey with The Cure spanned an impressive period, showcasing his versatility and dedication. He initially joined the band in 1984, working behind the scenes to “look after the band” until 1989. His transition to a full-time member in 1990 marked the beginning of a prolific era. During his tenure, he contributed his talents on guitar, six-string bass, and keyboard, featuring on seminal albums such as Wish, Wild Mood Swings, Bloodflowers, Acoustic Hits, and the self-titled The Cure. Over his initial 14 years with the band, he performed in over 400 shows.
Bamonte’s connection with The Cure wasn’t a one-off; he rejoined the band in 2022, adding another 90 electrifying performances to his repertoire. These later shows are remembered as some of the band’s most memorable, culminating in the “lost world concert” in London on November 1, 2024. His contributions were consistently described as “quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative,” making him a warm-hearted and integral part of The Cure’s narrative.
Life Beyond the Stage
While music was a significant part of his life, Perry Bamonte also cultivated passions outside the spotlight. Following his extensive music career, he developed a keen interest in fly-fishing and drawing. He and his wife, Donna, shared a unique venture: rehabilitating and retraining racehorses. They ran what could be described as a “retirement home” for these magnificent animals, demonstrating a deep affection for and commitment to equine welfare.
Clarification on Passing
Following Perry Bamonte’s death, police initiated an investigation after receiving a report from a family member who expressed concern over information they had received. However, his widow, Donna, has strongly refuted any suggestion of foul play, describing the investigation as “bulls***” and asserting that her husband’s passing was solely due to terminal bowel cancer.
Donna revealed that Perry was first diagnosed with the aggressive disease in 2020. He received the all-clear a year later, offering a period of hopeful remission. Sadly, the cancer returned in 2024, and by then, it had been diagnosed as terminal. “His doctors can confirm he was first diagnosed in 2020 and had the all-clear in 2021, but there was a recurrence in 2024,” she stated. “I have had no contact with the police since his death. This is all complete and utter nonsense.”
The official website for The Cure confirmed the sad news of Bamonte’s passing, releasing a statement that read: “It is with enormous sadness that we confirm the death of our great friend and bandmate Perry Bamonte who passed away after a short illness at home over Christmas.”
Perry Bamonte was one of five siblings and grew up in Basildon, Essex. His legacy as a dedicated musician and a cherished member of The Cure, as well as his life with Donna, will be remembered by many.
