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A heartwarming tribute was paid to a popular postman at his funeral in Maidstone after he tragically died from coronvirus.
Paul Dunmill, of Sutton Valence, lost his life on January 30 following a tough three-week battle with COVID-19.
But at the 56-year-old’s funeral on Thursday (February 25), the most incredible farewell procession took place in his honour.
Residents of East Farleigh in Maidstone lined the streets and watched on as a hearse and horse drawn carriage followed by dozens of Royal Mail vans slowly made their way down Dean Street.
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In a nod to his dedication to the job and 40 years of service, the funeral procession followed his usual delivery route.
Beginning in South Lane, Sutton Valence, it then made its way through Coxheath and East Farleigh, stopping in Gallants Lane at Paul’s memorial plaque outside Kent House.
The rest of the convoy of Royal Mail vans joined the procession from the Lidl car park in Tovil, before they all arrived at Vinters Park Crematorium.
And the long line of red vans was an emotional sight, showing just how loved Paul was by so many.
(Image: The Communications Union)
Paul’s son Craig Dunmill chose white horses with the carriage to carry out the journey, instead of black to “keep things as bright as possible, reflecting dad’s personality, with red plumes on the horses to represent the Royal Mail. A job he loved for 40 years.”
A JustGiving page has been set up in Paul’s honour, already raising more than £10k in support of his widow Susan and son Craig.
The page, which has in excess of 300 donations, was set up by Simone Perkins.
‘The absolute sunshine in everyone’s day’
(Image: Simone Perkins)
She wrote: “This page is being created in loving memory of our dearest Postie Paul – the absolute sunshine in everyone’s day in East Farleigh.
“He was honestly the loveliest man to walk these paths and lanes. The kindest man, the most honourable.
“Wind, rain or shine, his cheerful soul would deliver our post with always that same giving smile.
“Always time to chat, to care, to leave those parcels hidden.
(Image: KentLive)
“To play and love the pets of ours that adored him.
“To help fix a wheel arch back on with gaffer tape, swing on a tree branch so you could reach to saw it. This was Paul.
“The stories and anecdotes are endless. He was special.
“Above and beyond. Everybody’s friend. Loved by all, for miles.”
‘The brightest star up there’
The page adds: “Please take this opportunity to give a little something for his family, to help them heal.
“To create a memoriam maybe, take his retirement dreams and live them for him, for them. Whatever will steel them forward in their loss.
“We will all miss you terribly Postie Paul. Absolutely the brightest star up there now. Shine down on us always lovely man.”
You can donate to Paul’s family on the JustGiving page here.
