IN A moving tribute to Lee Nurse, who died of Covid-19 on Thursday, his family described him as “the shining star of our lives”.

The 43-year-old’s parents, Leon and Christine, 18-year-old son Rilee and brother Dean, sent the Gazette a tribute to Lee, in which they said: “As we all know, hundreds of thousands have been taken by this awful virus, but never in a million years would you think that it could happen to one of your flesh and blood. Well, it has, and as a family it hit us so hard to our beautiful off-spring Lee.”

The family said Lee “would light up a room with his smile and laughter” adding: “Lee was loved and respected by all that knew him and we are overwhelmed with the kindness and support we have received from the many tributes and calls and messages from across the world is the only thing keeping us going at this present moment.”

Lee, who worked in professional construction recruitment and was a talented cricketer, was described by his family as a “devoted father to Rilee” and “the best brother to Dean” as well as a “wonderful son who was also our best friend”.

In a message to Lee, the family said: “You were a man of real honour, a credit and blessing to us as a family and so many more who had the pleasure of knowing you. Your infectious smile and gentle will stay in our hearts forever.

“Life will never be the same as we know it, but one thing’s for certain, when we reach those pearly gates, we know for sure that you will pull out all the stops for us and the party will begin. Until then, rest in paradise.

“Love and miss you always”

The family's full tribute: As we all know, hundreds of thousands have been taken by this awful virus, but never in a million years would you think that it could happen to one of your flesh and blood. Well, it has, and as a family hit us so hard to our beautiful off-spring Lee. He was the shining star of our lives and whenever he walked into a room, we knew he would light it up with his smile and his laughter. Lee was loved and respected by all that knew him and we are overwhelmed with the kindness and support we have received from the many tributes and calls and messages from across the world is the only thing keeping us going at this present moment. Lee was a devoted father to Rilee who has never ceased to make him proud, and I know he will continue to do so, he was the best brother to Dean who we know will do his best to ensure that his brothers legacy will never be forgotten, and Lee was without doubt a wonderful son who was also our best friend.

You were a man of real honour, a credit and blessing to us as a family and so many more who had the pleasure of knowing you. Your infectious smile and gentle will stay in our hearts forever.

Life will never be the same as we know it, but one thing’s for certain, when we reach those pearly gates, we know for sure that you will pull out all the stops for us and the party will begin. Until then, Rest in Paradise.

Love and miss you always Mum, Dad, Rilee & Dean xx