28/08/2025
A heartfelt appeal has been made for members of the public to attend the funeral in South Shields of a 91-year-old RAF veteran who has no surviving family.
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APPEAL FOR PEOPLE TO ATTEND FUNERAL OF VETERAN WHO HAS NO FAMILY 🚨💔
A heartfelt appeal has been made for members of the public to attend the funeral of a 91-year-old RAF veteran who has no surviving family.
John Thomas Gray, originally from Boldon Colliery, passed away on 3 August. With no relatives left behind, only a few photographs were found among his possessions.
Mr Gray’s funeral will take place at 9am on Wednesday, 3 September, at South Shields Crematorium.
Despite his service in the Royal Air Force, no standard bearer or bugler has been made available for the service. The Royal British Legion has said they are unable to assist without Mr Gray’s regimental number.
Friends and organisers have described the situation as deeply sad and are calling on the community to come together to ensure Mr Gray does not make his final journey alone.
Richard Dalton Funerals and organiser Tracy Curren are appealing for anyone who can act as a standard bearer, particularly from the RAF, or a bugler to get in touch. Ex-service personnel and members of the public are also warmly invited to attend and pay their respects.
The message from organisers is clear: “No veteran should go on his final journey alone.”
📍 Funeral details:
Date: September 3rd (Wed)
Time: 9am
Venue: South Shields Crematorium
Contact: Richard Dalton Funerals (0191 7070770) or Tracy Curren
