Funeral for John Middleditch who died after contracting infection for second time

As reported by the Daily Echo, 49-year-old John Middleditch died on April 10 after contracting sepsis and a flesh eating bug for the second time.

The former builder, known locally as ‘Uncle John’, had already lost all four limbs after flu-like symptoms hospitalised him in 2012.

The hearse drove into the Pepys Avenue church preceded by a low-rider motorbike and followed by about 50 mourners on foot, including Rose Banks, John’s partner of 15 years.

Reverend Duncan Jennings led the service and said: “We are here to celebrate John’s life. He is a wonderful example of how when adversity strikes we can turn things on their head and become an inspiration.

“We are all here today to support Rose and the rest of the family.

“Thornhill is a community and as a community we are very good at that. John was an inspiration to many.”

Pink Floyd’s Comfortably Numb played as John’s coffin was taken into the church, and Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion as it made it’s way out.

During the service Rose said John “loved life to the full”.

“He loved to talk and teach people different things. He was an inspiring and brave man for what he had been through.

"I’d like to thank the doctors and nurses at Southampton Hospital and Salisbury Hospital who were like a second family.”

Close family went on to the committal at St Mary’s cemetery before welcoming guests at the British Legion Club in Windover Close.

Donations in memory of John can be made to John Terry Independent Funeral Directors.

• Man who had limbs amputated dies after second attack by flesh eating bug