Carl Sargeant’s funeral to be a celebration of his life – family

THE family of Carl Sargeant have requested that the Labour AM’s funeral is treated as a celebration of his life.

The ex-Welsh Government Communities Secretary’s funeral, on December 1, should not be a “day for mourning” and those attending should not wear formal suits or black, according to Mr Sargeant’s son, Jack.

Alyn and Deeside AM Mr Sargeant, 49, was found dead in an apparent suicide days after he was dismissed from the Welsh Government cabinet and was suspended by the Labour Party while complaints of inappropriate behaviour towards women were investigated.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Jack said: “We continue to be inundated with so many kind messages of support from across the UK.

“Messages that have not only given us strength over recent days – but messages that have left us in no doubt as to the extent Dad was loved and respected by those who knew him. It has already been announced that Dad will find rest on Friday, December 1. My mum, Bernie, sister, Lucy, and I have decided that day should be a celebration of Dad’s life – not a day for mourning.

“Everyone who knew Dad will understand he wouldn’t want it any other way. He was never one for pomp.

“He was never one for ‘airs and graces’. That was never his style.

“So, we ask that there be no formal suits nor black worn on this day of celebration.

“We want people to wear something that makes them feel happy and to come and remember Dad as he was – kind, generous, and the life and soul of the party.

“All friends – from far and wide – are welcome to St Mark’s Church to join us.”

Mr Sargeant was found dead by his widow at their home in Connah’s Quay on November 7, four days after being sacked from his cabinet role, when he was still unaware of the precise nature of the allegations against him.

A formal inquiry has been announced into First Minister Carwyn Jones’ treatment of Mr Sargeant.