Meredith Gaudreau, widow of the late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, made a poignant and emotional announcement during his memorial service on Monday, revealing that she is nine weeks pregnant with their third child. The news comes just weeks after the tragic accident that claimed the lives of Johnny, 31, and his younger brother Matthew Gaudreau, 29.
The two were killed on August 29 when an alleged drunk driver struck them as they were riding their bikes in Oldmans Township, New Jersey.
Johnny Gaudreau, a beloved player for the Columbus Blue Jackets, leaves behind his wife Meredith and their two young children—daughter Noa, who will turn 2 in October, and 7-month-old son Johnny Jr. The couple had only recently celebrated the arrival of their second child in February, making the announcement of Meredith’s pregnancy both heart-wrenching and bittersweet.
Speaking at the memorial service, Meredith shared the emotional news of her pregnancy, reflecting on the time she spent with Johnny and their children. “John and I had the best six months as a family of four. These will forever be the best six months of my life,” she told those gathered, according to ABC News. “There’s specifically one week that I will cherish forever. We’re actually a family of five. I’m in my ninth week of pregnancy with our third baby.”
Meredith went on to describe Johnny’s reaction to the unexpected news of their third child. “His reaction was just immediately kissing me and hugging me,” she said, recalling the joy and excitement they both felt. The pregnancy had been a surprise for the couple, coming so soon after the birth of their second child. “Noa, our oldest, hasn’t even turned 2 yet,” Meredith shared. “In less than three years of marriage, we’ve created a family of five. It doesn’t even sound possible, but I look at it as the ultimate blessing. How lucky am I to be the mother of John’s three babies? Our last one being a blessing and so special despite these difficult circumstances.”
The memorial service, held at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Media, Pennsylvania, brought together family, friends, and the hockey community to honor the lives of Johnny and Matthew. In attendance were current and former teammates, as well as NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. The loss of the two brothers has deeply impacted all who knew them, with Meredith reflecting on the inseparable bond they shared. “Everything was always John and Matty,” she said. “I know John would not have been able to live a day without his brother.”
Matthew’s widow, Madeline Gaudreau, also spoke at the service. She too is expecting a child, their first, whom they had already named Tripp. In an emotional plea, Madeline urged those present to think carefully before drinking and driving, hoping to prevent other families from enduring similar tragedies. “I urge everyone to not drink and drive,” she said, according to the Associated Press. “Find a ride. Please don’t put another family through this torture.”
The driver responsible for the crash, Sean M. Higgins, was attempting to pass another vehicle when he fatally struck Johnny and Matthew, according to the New Jersey State Police. Higgins has been charged with two counts of death by auto and is currently in custody. The Gaudreau brothers had been in town to serve as groomsmen for their sister Katie’s wedding, which was set to take place the day after the accident but has since been postponed.
As the Gaudreau family mourns the loss of two cherished members, they also look toward the future with the anticipation of two new lives. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Madeline and her unborn child, Tripp, with nearly $650,000 raised as of Monday.
The heartbreaking juxtaposition of loss and new beginnings has resonated deeply with the community, underscoring the enduring legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.
