Hundreds of people lined the streets to say their final goodbyes to Tom Parker on Wednesday morning.
Widow Kelsey Parker married The Wanted singer in 2018, whom she shares two children with, Aurelia, two, and one-year-old son Bodhi. Hundreds of family, friends, loved ones and fans were seen lining the streets ahead of Wednesday's emotional send off to the popular singer.
Tom Parker shot to fame as one-fifth of the pop boyband, but tragically died aged just 33 last month surrounded by his family. News of his death was announced on March 30 with a statement posted on Instagram by his widow, alongside a grey and white picture of the singer, from Bolton.
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In her statement, Kelsey said: "Our hearts are broken, Tom was the centre of our world and we can't imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence. We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all unite to ensure Tom’s light continues to shine for his beautiful children. Thank you to everyone who has supported in his care throughout, he fought until the very end. I’m forever proud of you."
His passing came after Tom was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour in 2020. He revealed the news of his diagnosis to fans in October 2020 when his wife, Kelsey, was pregnant with their second child, vowing to fight it all the way.
On Wednesday morning, Kelsey was seen leading a cortege featuring three black horses through Petts Wood in south-east London, walking closely with family members to St Francis of Assisi church, MEN reports. The Wanted band members, and close friends, Max Geroge, Nathan Sykes, Siva Kaneswaran, and Jay McGuinness were also pictured arriving for the funeral after sharing their heartbreak at the loss of their 'brother' last month.
Flowers spelling out the word "Daddy" adorned the side of the carriage while a flowered sign that spelled the word "Tom" in red roses and the shape of a love heart was attached to the front. Outside St Francis of Assisi church, flowers spelled out the words "Glad You Came" - the title of The Wanted’s 2011 hit that went to number one in multiple countries.
Red hearts filled social media when Kelsey shared news of the funeral plans on Instagram last week as fans rushed to show their support. One user said: "Love you. wish that I could be there but alas I live in New Zealand. Give everyone a big hug from me."
Another wrote: "This is so lovely. I wish I was able to go but I’ll be there in spirit and I know you will give him the most amazing send off." While a third added: "I can’t unfortunately be there but I’ll be there in spirit and light a candle for our Tom."
News of the popular singers death hit hard across the UK, earlier this month, devastated fans gathered at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle for a touching vigil and balloon release as they remembered the "lovely" man. Heartfelt messages and photos were also placed outside the arena before a moving balloon release was held. The event was one of the many memorial events at venues across the UK to be held.
