The late John Andrew Williamson, also known by his nickname Sooty, was laid to rest at Shiregreen Cemetery after a long battle with health issues. He was a man of many names and a heart full of love for his family and friends. His son, Leroy Williamson, announced on Facebook that they honored his father’s wish for a Muslim burial on May 12th. John, who had been both a Rasta and a Muslim in his lifetime, was known for his humor and his fierce loyalty to those he loved.
To celebrate his life, a memorial will be held at The Hillsborough Club on Friday, June 7th, from 6:30 PM onwards, where his favorite Bob Marley Reggae music will play, and friends and family will gather to remember him. Leroy has organized a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs of the burial, memorial event, and a headstone for his grave. The campaign, titled "In loving memory of John Andrew Williamson (Sooty)," has raised £100 out of the £1,500 goal so far.
The news of John’s passing has prompted an outpouring of support and condolences on Facebook. Leroy’s post about his father’s death was met with numerous heartfelt comments:
- Helen Beaumont: "Awww I’m so sorry for your loss xx"
- Stuart Latham: "Top man Rip sorry for your loss."
- Kerry Louise Peach: "Sorry for Ur loss I’ll try and get there on 7th x"
- Yasmin Oldfield: "So sorry to hear your sad news, we are thinking of you both xx"
- Sharon Francis: "Sorry for your loss"
- Maxine Smith: "So sorry for your loss thinking of you all x"
- Lizzie White: "So very very sorry for ur loss thinking of u all, xzz"
- Emma Naughton Downes: "So Sorry for your loss"
- Ann Robinson: "So sorry for your loss"
- Karen Dodsworth: "So sorry, sending lots of love"
- Jane Louise: "Sorry to hear of your loss xx"
- Guy Revill: "Bloody hell sooty so sad sorry to hear that see u other side bro god bless RIP"
- Janet Percival: "So sorry to hear this sad news R.I.P John thinking of you all xxxx"
- Collette Smith: "So sorry for your loss, you are in our thoughts xxx"
- Laura Elyse Fae: "So sorry to read this Leroy. Sending you, family and friends all the love at this time xxxx"
- Mandy Kelly: "So sorry for your loss Wendy Sue Simpson hugs to you and family xxx"
- LindaTel English: "Ahhh so sorry, God bless your Dad xxxx"
- Tracy Wright: "So sorry for your loss babe thinking of you all xx"
- Steph Matheson: "Sorry for your loss xx"
- Samantha Shurmer: "Sorry to hear this Leroy. Thinking of you xxx"
- Pauline Kelly: "Sorry that you’ve lost your dad Leroy, I know the feeling as I lost my mum several years ago too and I miss her every day as I loved her so much xxx Take care Leroy ok xxx me now I’m 80 years old ok x"
- Louise Loulou Davis: "Thinking of you luv xx"
- Davenna Baxendale: "So sorry for your loss, sending love xx"
- Jacqueline Buchanan: "Sorry for your loss. X"
- Lynne Crosbie: "Sorry to hear of your loss Leroy Andre Williamson ..X"
- Carl Wild: "Words can’t say how much I’m going to miss you bro xxx"
- Solaw Nawaz: "So sorry for your loss Leroy, thoughts and prayers are with you"
- Kristie Louise Poulter: "Sorry for your loss x"
Leroy’s effort to gather support for his father’s final wishes reflects the deep love and respect the community had for John. The memorial event and the fundraiser are ways for everyone to come together, celebrate his life, and ensure his legacy endures.
Note:This post was written and edited by Victoria Perez, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.