Emotional funeral of Everton fan killed building stadium as captain pay tribute

08 September 2023 , 13:47

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Michael Jones has been laid to rest

The Everton supporter who died from injuries sustained while carrying out construction work at the club's new stadium has been laid to rest in a funeral attended by Seamus Coleman.

Michael Jones, from Kirkby, Merseyside, suffered severe head injuries after he became trapped between a beam and the machine he was working on at Bramley Moore Dock in Liverpool. The 26-year-old later died in hospital, with his shocked fellow workers being ordered to leave the site that day.

Jones was laid to rest at Saint Joseph and Saint Laurence in Kirkby. His heartbroken family said of him: "The family would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support.

"It is with our greatest sadness that our beloved son, brother uncle and friend Michael has sadly passed away.

"He was a lifelong blue who was so happy to be working on the new stadium. We want to thank the NHS staff and work colleagues who did their best for Michael. He will be missed beyond words."

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Coleman and Everton's interim chief executive Colin Chong led a delegation of senior Everton staff at the funeral this Friday.

Everton fans paid their respect to Michael Jones (PA)

The pair were also joined by club ambassadors Graham Stuart and Ian Snodin as well as club chaplain Reverend Henry Corbett at the church service.

Michael's coffin was carried in a grand horse-drawn carriage, with his family travelling in front in a blue hearse with images of Everton legends and Goodison Park pictured on the side.

Everton's Latin motto, Nil Satis Nisi Optimum, also featured on both the hearse and Michael's coffin, while the procession was led by bagpipers.

Michael Jones' coffin was carried in a white carriage

A poem composed by family friend Darren Griffiths, who is also Everton's broadcast and liaison manager, was included in the order of service.

The stadium site was closed on Friday afternoon as a mark of respect, and to allow his friends and colleagues to attend the funeral.

Laing O'Rourke, Everton's construction partner, also tilted the gibs of all site cranes towards Goodison Park, where Michael's family and friends will gather in the evening, as a mark of respect.

Jake Polden