The parents of an 18-year-old man who died of a rare form of cancer have laid their son to rest.
About 200 mourners filled the south chapel of South Essex Crematorium in Upminster yesterday (June 18) to celebrate the life of Bayley Johnson after a procession from his Barking Riverside home.
His casket – covered in white carnations and lillies – arrived drawn by a pair of dappled grey horses with navy blue plumes on their heads.
The Spurs fan who dreamed of being a professional goalkeeper was carried in by loved ones wearing club shirts with Bayley written on the back.
Rev Andrew Bryant introduced the service saying: “Though Bayley’s life was so tragically cut short through a devastating illness, he touched so many.”
He then described the “awesome love and support” for Bayley from dad Brian, mum Nikki, brothers Tyler, 20, Louie, 14, Teddy, 10 and eight-year-old sister Ruby-Rose.
Bayley’s parents paid tribute to their children in a moving and heartfelt speech.
Fighting back tears, Brian said: “I should be talking about how great Bayley was, how talented as a young sportsman. He was all that times infinity.
“Our children have been a massive credit to Bayley. When they needed to step up they stepped up. They supported their brother in stressful and frustrating times. These kids are the most amazing kids any parent could ever wish for.”
And he praised Bayley’s mum, who slept by her son’s bedside every night as she nursed him through the illness the adrenal cortisol cancer caused.
Describing his son’s wishes after his passing, Brian said: “He asked us all to stick together and be strong for each other. Bayley Johnson, a great young man taken far too early.”
Rev Bryant addressed Bayley’s mates telling them how much their support meant to the family before describing Bayley’s first experience clubbing when he was forced to watch his mates drink because he couldn’t.
“He said it was a bit rich he had to look after you,” Rev Bryant told them.
He ended by telling mourners: “Bayley’s memory will live on in your hearts and minds always.”
For more information about adrenal cortisol cancer visit cancerresearch.org
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