The family and friends of a 26-year-old leukaemia sufferer who tragically passed away this week have launched a fundraising campaign for his funeral and are holding a memorial night in his honour.
Bill Flavell from Stevenage died on Monday after battling leukaemia, which he was diagnosed with in October last year.
The keen footballer and Manchester United fan first started feeling ill last June and went for tests, but was not diagnosed with the cancer of the blood until four months later.
A crowdfunding page on the JustGiving website has already reached £3,800 after a £5,000 target was set.
The memorial night is being organised by friends Daryl Haggerty and Gary Haze and will take place at The Almond Tree pub in Lonsdale Road, where the friends used to drink, from 7pm on Saturday, January 21. There will be collection pots on the tables and all who knew Bill are welcome.
Daryl said: “We just wanted to raise awareness and give him the send-off he deserves.
“We used to get up to a lot of mischief when we were younger. He was like a brother to me. He would do anything for anybody and always put others before himself.
“He was a big character and his death has left a hole in everyone’s lives.”
Bill’s mum, Jayne Flavell, said of her son: “He was just an amazing, fun guy and no one had a bad word to say about him.
“He made everybody laugh. Everyone will remember him for that.
“He loved singing and music and often entertained us all at home.”
Bill attended Hailey Hall School in Hoddesdon, but Jayne admits school didn’t suit him and instead he preferred to spend time at home with his family.
She said: “He loved his nieces and nephews and had so much time for them.
“How much we all loved him. Sometimes you don’t get the chance to tell people enough before they go.”
To donate to the JustGiving page, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/BillFlavell7.
As well as mum Jayne, Bill leaves behind his step dad Steve Crease, brother Rhys Flavell, sisters Emily Flavell and Evie Fordham, dad Eddie and step mum Louise.
His funeral takes place at Harwood Park Crematorium in Stevenage from 3.30pm on Friday, January 27. All welcome.
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