Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Help give mum an amazing send-off
The grieving family of a single mum who died suddenly on Friday are appealing for help to pay for her funeral.
Sabrina Jones, 33, passed away after she was struck down by pneumonia, leaving behind her heartbroken 13-year-old daughter, Bethany.
The security guard, who lived in Oxford Road, Canterbury, died with her family, daughter and partner, Mark Tappenden, at her bedside.
She had no life insurance or savings, but her loved ones say they want to give her a fitting send-off and provide Bethany with a small nest egg for her future education.
Speaking to the Gazette, her mother Jeanette Winslow, 52, told how Sabrina’s death came as a complete shock to everyone.
“We had no idea that when she was first taken ill and went into hospital the week before that it would end so cruelly,” she said.
“It was heartbreaking when they had to turn the life support machine off.
“Sabrina was such a strong, independent woman but she couldn’t fight off the illness.
“The nurses and doctors were amazing and we would like to thank them for their kindness and support.”
Bethany, who is a pupil at St Anselm’s School in the city, says she is determined to make her mum proud.
“Mum was amazing and losing her has affected my education,” she said.
“But I am determined to make her proud of me when I go back to school after Easter and eventually hope to do something in engineering.”
Mrs Winslow, who lives in Kingsmead, will now care for Bethany with the support of Sabrina’s siblings, Sherrie Bruce, 34, Marie Marchant, 29, and Carl Winslow, 30.
Family friend Sarah Cooper has set up an online fundraising appeal, with £ 1,350 has already been donated towards the £2,000 target.
She said: “I’ve been com- pletely humbled by this amazing family and the strength, love and commitment they have to each other.
“I’m now asking all friends and family that know these amazing people to contribute anything they can to give Sabrina the amazing send-off and celebration of her life she deserves.”
Jeannette added: “If there is any money left over, we will give it to Bethany to help with her future education.”
Sabrina worked for many years on the doors of pubs and clubs and at events and business premises for the security firm Right Guard.
Boss Tony Smith said: “We were shocked and saddened to hear of Sabrina’s untimely death.
“I remember her as a very reliable and hard worker who did her best to support herself and her daughter and we shall be making a donation to the appeal.”
Sarah, who played in the darts team with Sabrina at the Run of the Mill in Sturry Road, says a charity match and quiz will take place at the pub on Saturday from midday.
She is also setting up and on-line raffle which will be launched next week.
She said: “I have had lots of small business and people donating superb prizes including photo shoots, portraits, makeovers, flowers, cake and meals out.
“Also anyone wishing to donate anything or buy tickets can contact me on 07539340294
To support the family’s appeal go to www.gofundme. com/mdtxgnpk