The family and friends of Sam Gibbons – an Isle of Wight motorcyclist who sadly passed away following a collision in July – have come together to remember him in a series of events.
As previously reported by Island Echo, 31-year-old Sam was involved in a collision on Whiterails Road on the 15th July in the vicinity of Butterfly World. Despite the very best efforts of the emergency services, Sam tragically lost his life.
The father of two’s family has thanked members of the Island community for their support during their grief and the financial assistance that was given by Islanders who donated to the GoFundMe page set up to help cover the costs of laying Sam to rest.
Sam’s funeral took place on the 12th August, with his 13-year-old son Leo showing extreme bravery and maturity by leading the cortege into the ceremony and holding the helmet of flowers.
Speaking to Island Echo, the mother of Sam’s children said:
“The children have been amazing and so strong throughout. We would like Leo to be recognised for his bravery and strength he has shown throughout especially at his father’s funeral.
Article continues below this advertisement “Leo had the strength to stand infront of his father’s coffin leading into the ceremony and back out again holding a helmet of flowers their mother had made in Sam’s memory, while Sam’s father, 3 brothers and 2 of Sam’s friends carried him.
“Leo also showed a huge amount of strength at the burial of his father and at 13 years old he has been so inspiring, and brave.”
Those attending the ceremony were asked to wear black and gold to match Sam’s much-loved motorbike.
In a bid to memorialise their loss and celebrate Sam’s life, his family and friends also joined together in a series of events including a motorcycle ride out from Carisbrooke Castle to Blackgang Viewpoint where a balloon release took place in his memory.
This article has been published at the request of and guidance from Sam’s family and in accordance with their wishes.
Hampshire Constabulary is appealing for information from anyone who may have been travelling in the area at the time of the incident. Did you witness the collision, or do you have dashcam footage that could assist the investigation?
Anyone with any information is asked to call the police on 101 with reference 44210279717.
Well done young man, very inspiring to read how strong you have been, done your father proud 🙂
He was my brother he was my rock my inspiration in life he will never be missed not one day fly high bro xx
Why is the funding page still open and allowing donations? Just a question…
What a lad! Top man! Your dad will be proud! Always remember strength is on the inside not outside.
YOUNG LEO SHOWED STRENGTH AND THE PURPOSE TO DO. WHAT HE DID ,I WISH HIM WELL FOR THE FUTURE, WITHOUT A DOUBT THE FAMILY WILL ENSURE THAT LEO WILL BE GUIDED, A NOTE JUST TO SAY VERY WELL DONE