People lined the streets and packed a church to say goodbye to “the kindest person you should ever hope to meet.”
Fakenham came to a standstill yesterday (November 8) to honour the life of John ‘Jonathan’ Hollings, who died last month following a cardiac arrest at his home in the nearby village of Wood Norton.
Mr Hollings, best known for his just over a quarter of a century working at Drifters Fish & Chips, was taken on his final trip through Fakenham to St Peter and St Paul's church in the town in a glass carriage, pulled by two white horses.
In front of the carriage was Jonathan’s husband of 30 years, Mark, and his two children - Adam Hollings and Emma Marrison.
Mrs Marrison paid tribute to her father, saying: “I felt like he was my rock my entire life. If I need anything he was always there for me.”
His family gathered outside of the church, with onlookers seen crying in the street before his coffin - which was covered with pictures of Jonathan with loved ones - was taken inside.
During the funeral, Mark paid tribute to his husband, describing him as “the kindest person you should ever hope to meet, who brought out the best in people.” His tribute was read by Emma Duggan.
Donations boxes were at the church in memory of Mr Hollings, with money going to the British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK, and The Dog’s Trust. People can also make donations online via www.jonathanhollings.muchloved.com - with donations already reaching £1,123.75
The family thanked everyone who attended the funeral and added a special thanks to Revd Tracy Jessop and Emma Duggan
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