Family's tribute to 'one-in-a-million' mum stabbed to death by daughter's partner in brutal attack

A family paid tribute to a 'one-in-a-million' mum who was killed by her daughter's partner in a ruthless knife attack. Wendy Francis was brutally murdered while the killer's girlfriend Stacey Hill was also seriously injured.

Damian Homer, 50, launched the attack on Wendy, 61, who died at the scene at a house on Haresfield Close in Worcester, on March 2. Ms Hill, 38, also suffered serious injuries, but survived. The family of the two victims said Homer had been "welcomed with open arms, showing nothing but love, support and loyalty". He admitted charges of murder and attempted murder.

He was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 20 years at Worcester Crown Court yesterday, Thursday, November 7. Wendy’s family paid tribute to her. In a statement issued by West Mercia Police, they said: "Wendy really was a one-in-a-million with a heart of gold, amazing in so many ways, her bubbly personality would light up a room and put a smile on everyone’s face.

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"She would do anything for anyone. She welcomed Damian Homer into the family with open arms, showing nothing but love, support and loyalty towards him, which makes all of this so much harder to comprehend. We will never come to terms with why this happened on March 2, but what we do know is she will be loved and missed forever. The void she has left in the lives of her family and friends is one that will never be filled.

"We know our loved ones don’t live forever, but this wasn’t her time, she was snatched away from us for reasons we will never understand. It’s going to be so hard but we should try and live our lives to the full and live a life which would make her proud, that’s what she would want. We haven’t got it in our hearts to say goodbye…. but we will say what you always used to say to us….. Goodnight godbless."

Speaking after the case, retired Det Chief Insp Leighton Harding, who led the investigation, said: “First and foremost, our thoughts continue to be with Wendy’s family. Her loss has left a huge hole in their lives. They are utterly heartbroken, but the courage they’ve shown throughout the court proceedings has been incredible.

“I would also like to commend the second victim, who survived Homer’s attack. Despite the unimaginable trauma she faced, the bravery she has shown has been inspiring and without doubt the evidence she was able to provide was instrumental in securing the conviction of Homer and today’s sentence.

“I’d also like to thank the investigation team, who worked tirelessly to ensure that Homer was charged with murder and attempted murder as quickly as possible.

“Nothing can bring Wendy back or ease the pain that her murder has caused her family, but I hope that today’s sentence, and the knowledge that Homer will now face the consequences of his brutal actions by spending a significant number of years in prison, allows them some closure going forwards.”

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