A PACKED Our Lady of Fatima Church paid their respects at the funeral of twelve-year-old Giona Botchway-Adjei who passed away last month.
The service was led by Father Bogdan and assisted by Archbishop Frimpong Manson BEM.
There were a number of speakers including Giona’s sisters.
Headteacher of St Mark’s West Essex Catholic School John Taylor also spoke, describing Giona as someone who “brightened the lives of everyone he met”.
There were members of his football team, Harlow Tekkers, his school friends and representatives across the community.
Bush Fair councillor, Kay Morrison was also present.
This was a deeply emotional service, with many people in tears but the constant message was of hope, of light and a call to cherish the memory of a very beloved young boy.
After the service, the cortege passed by Giona’s school, St Mark’s, where all the pupils and staff lined Tripton Road.
As the hearse passed by, the school gave a respectful round of applause for Giona.
The cortege made its way to Parndon cemetery, where Giona was laid to rest.