‘Sleep well son’ say heartbroken family of Nuneaton ‘gentle giant’ stabbing victim

The devastated family of a Nuneaton stabbing victim have paid tribute to the ‘gentle giant’. Relatives of Tom Ellis have issued emotional statements about the 25-year-old.

The sports fanatic died in hospital after being stabbed on Queens Road on the evening of Saturday 8 June. Loved ones spoke of their pride in their ‘loving son’.

The family’s statement said: “Our ‘gentle giant’ had an unparalleled zest for life, throwing himself into everything he did with boundless enthusiasm and passion.”

READ MORE: Angela Rayner says Nuneaton general election win would be ‘symbolic’

READ MORE: Join the CoventryLive free WhatsApp community

Tom was said to be a “vibrant soul, known for his love of brightly colored clothes, his extensive shoe collection, his iconic hairstyle and his impressive ‘Viking’ beard”.

“His unique style, infectious personality and love of crazy music made him an unforgettable presence in the lives of all who knew him,” the statement continued. “He could often be found dancing to his favorite tunes, bringing joy and laughter to those around him.”

His family also recalled the former Higham Lane School pupil’s talent, passion and dedication to sport, from swimming and football to his recent passion for squash. But, the statement said, above all, Tom was a “loving and integral part” of their close-knit family.

“He cherished his loved ones and was extremely protective of his friends,” they said. “The love he shared with his partner, Lex, was evident to all who saw them together. They had just begun to plan their future – a future that was tragically cut short.”

He continued: “Words cannot express the depth of our grief and the void that Tom’s passing has left in our lives. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the memories we will cherish forever.”

His family thanked those who showered the family with love and support, saying: “Your kindness and compassion have been a source of strength for us. We also want to thank the people who assisted the police with their enquiries. We now urge everyone to allow the police to carry out their investigation so that those responsible for this tragedy can be brought to justice.”

The tribute concluded: “Rest in peace our dear Tom. You will always be loved and never forgotten.”

The mother of the former North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College pupil also paid tribute to her first-born, who she said was a “friendly, loving, caring and sentimental son and stepson”. She talked about the impact she had on her siblings’ lives.

“As a big brother to his sister and two brothers, he was a good role model and would always be there if any of them needed him,” his mother said. “He loved to make people laugh and his smile was infectious. He always knew how to cheer people up and enjoyed being part of a team through all the sports he participated in.

“We are all so proud to have had you in our lives and will forever regret how soon you were taken from us. We will love you forever and your memory will live on.” It ends with the poignant statement, “Sleep well, son.”

A 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with murder. He was remanded in custody to appear at Warwick Crown Court on Friday, July 12.

Get all the Nuneaton and Bedworth news sent straight to you