The parents of a 23-year-old Hampshire woman who took her own life after being subjected to controlling and coercive behaviour have spoken about the devastating impact of her death.
Skye Nicholls was found dead at her home in Lindford, East Hampshire, on 9 June 2023.
During enquiries into her death, police established that Skye had been subjected to abuse by her then-partner, James Edwards, 26, from Horndean.
The pair had begun a relationship in December 2022.
Police said Skye endured verbal abuse, threats of physical violence and repeated insults, and that Edwards had on occasions told her to kill herself.
Edwards was later charged with two counts of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour.
He pleaded guilty on 1 September 2025 and was jailed for two years and three months in November that year.
Following an appeal, his sentence was reduced to 21 months in February 2026.
Skye’s father, Andrew, said his daughter’s death had left a “very big hole” in his life and described the family as broken.
He said returning to work had been extremely difficult, particularly when people asked how he was and he had to explain that Skye had died.
He added: “The fact that she will never walk through the door with that beautiful smile and infectious personality really hurts.
“They say with time things do feel better – they don’t.”
Andrew said family celebrations had never been the same since Skye’s death.
He said: “Family celebrations are not really ‘celebrations’ anymore since the light that lit up those Christmases and birthdays was turned off on that horrific day.”
Skye’s mother, Ashlie, described her daughter as a “bright, vivacious, kind and caring young woman” and said her death had devastated the entire family.
She said: “Life feels less bright, like a light has gone out.
“I mourn for the grown-up mother and daughter relationship we were starting to have. That she will never realise her dream of a supportive, caring partner and children is heartbreaking.”
Ashlie also spoke about the effect Skye’s death has had on her son, saying she fears for his mental health because of the trauma he experienced.
She added that family occasions would never be the same again and that Skye’s loss was still felt as strongly as on the day she died.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is encouraging anyone affected by domestic abuse to seek help and said people can contact police on 101 in confidence.
The force has also highlighted Clare’s Law, which allows people to ask police whether a current or former partner has a history of violence or abuse.
Anyone concerned that they, a friend or a relative may be at risk can make an application under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.
