Thousands mourn ‘gentle soul’ Lee

The coffin of murdered Fusilier Lee Rigby is carried from Bury Parish Church.

THE young son of murdered soldier Lee Rigby joined thousands of mourners in Bury in remembering a “gentle soul” and “larger–than–life” character.

In searing heat, the image of two–year–old Jack holding his mother’s hand outside the church as he wore a T–shirt with the tribute “My Daddy, My Hero” shone in the poignant service.

The heartbroken family of Fusilier Rigby, from Middleton, were among about 800 people packed inside Bury Parish Church to honour the 25 year old in a private funeral, relayed via loudspeakers to large crowds.

Prime Minister David Cameron and Mayor of London Boris Johnson attended the service for Fusilier Rigby, who was killed as he returned to Woolwich barracks in south–east London from the Tower of London on May 22.

In his eulogy to Fusilier Rigby, his commanding officer Lt Col Jim Taylor spoke of an “extremely popular soldier” who was known as “Riggers” to his friends.

Friend and ex–Fusilier Sean Sheer gave a eulogy which brought laughter from mourners.

Mr Sheer said he met Fusilier Rigby when he was posted to the Fusiliers in 2008 and found him the “most annoying, campest man I have ever met”, citing his singing and love of boyband Westlife as the reason.

Mr Sheer said his comrade’s young son came “crashing” into his life but Lee “took to fatherhood instantly”.

“Everywhere Lee went, Jack went with him,” he said. “Lee’s time on this earth was tragically cut short” but he was a “loving father and devoted husband”.

Fusilier Rigby’s coffin, draped in the Union flag, was borne out of the church by six pall bearers. His wife Rebecca (30), mother Lyn, stepfather Ian and Rebecca’s mother, Susan Metcalfe, watched from the steps, his young son Jack clutching his mother’s hand.

Fusilier Rigby’s mother fought back tears, holding her husband’s hand, and spontaneous applause rang out as the family left. A private committal followed the service.