The funeral of a charity fundraiser from Titchfield Common whose body was found on a beach on Christmas Eve was due to be held today (Tuesday January 15).
David Ellett, 22, of Clarendon Crescent was discovered on the beach at Stokes Bay near Bayside Cabin at 9.20am on December 24.
Scores of people are expected to attend the former Brookfield School pupil’s funeral at 2.30pm at Portchester Crematorium, including staff from the Co-operative in Park Gate, where Mr Ellett used to work and where staff have been running a collection in his memory.
Store manager Richard Bradley said: “David Ellett was a valued member of our store team, and his death has deeply saddened us all.
“Many staff members plan to attend the funeral on January 15, and we have organised for staff from nearby stores to cover so any colleagues who wish to attend can do so.
“David was committed to raising funds for international development charity, Plan International UK, and we have set up a collection for this charity in his memory.
“Our sympathies are with David’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Lisa Greenfield, a teacher at Brookfield School, said: “David was always cheerful, willing to help, polite and saw tasks through. He developed a good rapport with his teachers and other school staff. As he progressed through Brookfield he displayed a keen sense of humour.
“He was happy to try to work with others in lessons and was a joy to help as his smiling face had an impact on those that worked with him. He will always be fondly remembered.”
Readers of the Western Wards Gazette have paid their condolences to the family of Mr Ellett and described him as a “polite” and “courteous” person.
One reader, Jessica Ive, said: “Such a beautiful soul, his charming and courteous ways will be missed by many who so appreciated him – what a lovely lad he was.”
An inquest was opened and adjourned following Mr Ellett’s death.
Police had said the death was not being treated as suspicious.
