Hundreds of family and friends have attended the funeral of a 23-year-old man who died last week after a lifelong battle with muscular dystrophy.
Tributes have poured in for popular Nathan Smith, from Chalfont St Giles, and yesterday people said their final goodbye with a church service after a large procession from his home.
As well as 10 white Rolls Royce Phantom’s leading the parade there were also horse and carts with a number of wreaths depicting his personality.
Before the funeral, his mother Lorna Smith, said: “Everyone knew him. We are a big family, so he was always kept busy with his brothers and sisters.
“When he was born we were told he had muscular dystrophy, but it didn’t really affect him until he was about eight-years-old.
Pictures by ARM Images.
“He really enjoyed being on the farm and he lived for the outdoor lifestyle.
“He loved the outdoors and animals. He had lots of different things to keep him busy on the farm.”
Since he passed away, relatives have started to raise money to help continue fund research looking into the debilitating condition.
Jaynie Garman, his sister, said: “Anywhere he went, everyone seemed to know him. He was a funny, really loving person, who had time for everyone and never let his illness get in the way.
“Sadly it was too late to find a cure for Nathan, but there are many children and young adults, just like him, suffering with MD, hoping for a breakthrough in fighting this condition.”
Pictures by ARM Images.
They have so far raised £1,200. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/Jaynie-Garman
Did you know Nathan? Leave your tributes by commenting below or email andrew.colley@london.newsquest.co.uk
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