Funeral funds pour in for "one of the most likeable boys in the community"

Tuesday 23 January 2018

A fundraising appeal, launched to pay for the funeral of a 27-year-old islander who died while on holiday in Goa, has reached half of its £3,000 target in just five days after dozens donated to honor the memory of their friend who was "loved by so many."

Travel enthusiast, John-Henry Kerr died on his birthday on 4 January. His funeral will be held on 30 January at 13:00 at St. Thomas's Church.

One of his longtime friends told Express: "He was one of the most likeable young men in the community. He was loved by everyone he came in contact with. It is a devastating news. We are still trying to make sense of it."

A joiner by trade, John-Henry was a "frequent traveler" in his free time. Thailand and Cambodia were among the places he had recently visited, "he wanted to see the world," said his friend.

John-Henry was in Goa when he tragically passed away. The night before his death, he had been out with friends and people who were traveling with him. He was sadly found dead in his bed the next morning.

Pictured: St. Thomas's Church where John-Henry's funeral will be held.

After hearing the news, his friends decided to raise money to pay for the funeral costs. Writing on the Crowdfunding page, they said: "Whilst there is nothing we can do to undo this tragic event, we can help contribute to his funeral costs to give him the farewell he deserves. This is not a family appeal. This is a friends initiative. An opportunity for those of us whose lives were touched by this kind, smiling, gentle man to show our love and respect."

The appeal for John-Henry, who was "loved by so many who are all left brokenhearted," has reached half of the £3,000 target in just five days. Commenting on the page, those who knew him describe him as a "very special young man and son to two wonderful parents," a "fantastic young man" and a "cheeky chappy with a gorgeous smile."

John-Henry's funeral will be held on 30 January at 13:00 at St Thomas’s Church.

A fundraiser event is planned on 2 February at the United Servicemen’s club on Rue de Funchal with live music, a raffle and a poker night.