'Devastated' - Tributes paid to much-loved Blackpool man, 32, after sudden death
“We want to be able to celebrate his life, remember the person he was, and give our family and friends the chance to say one final goodbye”
Tributes have been paid to a much-loved familiar figure at a Blackpool pharmacy following his sudden death at just 32-years-old.
James Taylor, popularly known as JJ, was complex care manager at the Grange Pharmacy on Dinmore Avenue, Grange Park.
He had worked there since February 2013 and his shock death prompted a wave of floral tributes at the premises.
Saif Frfire, pharmacist at Grange Pharmacy, who worked with James throughout his time there, said: “James was a pillar of our community and a much-loved gentleman.
“His kindness, warmth and dedication to the local community will be greatly missed by everyone at the pharmacy. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
James’ sister Amber Taylor has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral which has already topped £3,800 towards its £4,500 target.
Amber said: “We are completely devastated and struggling to come to terms with losing my only sibling, son and friend to most so suddenly.
“Losing someone we love is never easy, but not being able to say goodbye or tell him how much he was loved makes this even harder for our family.
“We are now trying to raise money towards JJ’s funeral and to give him the beautiful and dignified send off that he deserves.
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“We want to be able to celebrate his life, remember the person he was, and give our family and friends the chance to say one final goodbye.
“Any contribution, no matter how big or small, would mean so much to us during this incredibly difficult time.
“We completely understand that not everyone is in a position to donate, so simply sharing this fundraiser, leaving a kind message, or keeping JJ and our family in your thoughts would mean the world to us.
“JJ will be deeply missed and will never be forgotten - he’s up there with our grandparents and fur babies watching over us.
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for any support you can give our family at this heartbreaking time.”
JJ was a former pupil of St Mary’s RC Academy in Blackpool.
Flowers laid in tribute to him outside Grange Pharmacy increased in number during Friday after those left by the end of the previous day were taken into the premises when they closed and laid out afresh at the start of business on Friday.
Donations can be made via www.gofundme.com/f/send-off-for-jj