Over 500 people attended the funeral of John Taylor, the Rovers fan who was sadly and tragically killed on the concourse at Stoke City just after half time over a month ago.
In a moving ceremony, the family of John and many Rovers fans were present to show their respects to this hugely popular man.
A few people were able to pass words in tribute to the man who had his life cruelly cut short.
Mrs.Taylor, speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph said – “John was my first, and when he was born a part of my heart came to life.
“Now he`s gone, a part of my heart has died.
“When he was a baby he was so perfect. I fell instantly in love with him.”
“When he told me he was going to be a Daddy he was so happy he cried. Tears rolled down his face when he held Jacob for the first time.
“I have memories and they can never be taken away from me.
“Till we meet again, I love you J.”
John himself was a Dad of one and his death united a nation as facebook groups and tributes poured in from football fans everywhere, not just Rovers fans.
At the funeral, tributes were made using flowers and horitcultural arrangements that read son, dad and bro and were made in the traditional blue and white that John held dear to him.
Representing the club, Rovers chaplain Ken Howles actually read out a couple of passages that family had prepared.
A poem written by Jay Lucas was read – “So many things to say, I`m not sure where to start, there`s only one John Taylor, you`ll be forever in our heart.”
“I bet you`ve found heaven`s bar, and partied through the night, gone to the pearly gates, and painted them blue and white.”
Rev Howles also read a tribute by David Thornley, a close friend which said – “He was the life and soul of many parties, a great friend to have in your corner.
“Friends come and go, but John was always there.
“I will never forget you big lad. Coming back to Darwen will never be the same for me.”
A sad day for everyone connected with Rovers but especially for the family of John Taylor, RIP John.
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