"A FIGHTER and my warrior" is how the partner of Mold man Neil Anthony Jones remembers him, in a moving tribute.

Dad to Ethan, 50-year-old Neil worked at Buckley foundry and then as a binman for Flintshire County Council before he developed MS.

Partner Kelly Catherall said: "Neil loved being a good dad to Ethan, and enjoyed family days out. Nothing or nowhere was ever too much for him.

"He was a big Wales and Man Utd fan - he even abseiled down the side of the stadium on crutches to raise money for MS - and loved writing poetry! His favourite piece that he wrote was A Field of Dreams.

"Neil was simply the best! He was mine and Ethan's brave hero."

Being heroic was clearly something that came naturally to Neil, as Kelly recalled a time when he saved an elderly woman from a house fire whilst on his round as a binman in New Brighton, carrying her out in a fireman's lift.

But he was brave in other ways too.

Kelly said: "Even though he had his illness and was in pain, he always had a smile on his face and told really bad dad jokes.

"He was a fighter and my warrior, the most amazing and most bravest man I had the pleasure of spending my life with. The most devoted dad to our little man Ethan, who he always called his top man and top banana.

"Neil will always be the brightest, shining star and will always be remembered by others for his bravery and love for his family, a true gent.

"He loved to go out and have a good evening and his smile would brighten up the room. He loved socialising and wouldn't accept any help when people offered to carry his pint, he was very independent and proud."

And Neil's enthusiasm for life is part of the legacy he leaves, with Kelly adding: "If Neil taught me anything, it was to be brave, even through the darkest storm. Wake every morning with a smile.

"He really was an amazing person who will be sadly missed by so many. He taught me to be strong and always follow our dreams.

"He always wanted Ethan to become a famous footballer, he guided and helped him and Ethan will do everything in his power to achieve that dream."

Neil leaves behind his loving partner Kelly, their beautiful son Ethan, sister Susan in Australia, brother Paul, Kelly's mum Poppy, and many friends who adored him.

A private funeral for Neil was held on Friday, August 14, at Mold Cemetery. Donations may be given in Neil's memory to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. All enquiries to Peter Morris Funeral Directors, Chester Street, Mold on 01352 700142.

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