We are deeply saddened to share the loss of one of the most innocent souls this world had. The sudden death of Vincent Philip has left his family, friends and all who knew him in great shock and grief. Vincent leaves behind his wife, Margaret (Sony), and four children, Eva and Elvis (twins), and Meryl and Mervyn. Vincent only recently came to the UK and was working hard to build a settled life here before bringing his youngest children, Eva and Elvis to join us.

Vincent was a one-of-a-kind soul and made a memorable impact on people everywhere he went. He was the greatest son, father, husband, uncle, brother, nephew, friend and ally and his loss will never be forgotten. He overcame unbearable hardships and suffering in his life, losing his late wife Gracy to cancer and supporting two young, angelic children. His tragic passing was undeserved for someone with so much more life to give. His dream was to provide his children with the best life possible in the UK. Our goal is to grant him his wish of reuniting our family and entrusting his children to the care of his loving wife. We need to bring his children from India so that they are not left alone and can grow up with the support of their mother and siblings in the UK. Whilst no one can truly fill the space left by his passing, we will devote our lives to supporting his children and ensure we give them the best future possible.

All those who truly knew Vincent can attest to his character. He is still the holiest, kindest, purest soul and a gentle and loving father and husband. He possessed the innocence of a child, was extremely humble and the most trusting person. He worked for a short period as a Social Worker in the UK after coming from India. There, he served with the highest level of dedication and sincerity, providing personalised care that left an everlasting impact on the inmates of the home he served. He went beyond societal expectations for the welfare of others and fully transformed the lives of individuals, to which we were all witness to.

Vincent Philip dedicated his life to others, leaving behind a legacy people can only dream of. For almost 30 years he selflessly served the Catholic Church as a Franciscan Missionary Brother, and he has an extensive record of service with prominent educational establishments including:

• Director of St. John’s Boys Home, Delhi

• Principal of St. Francis Vocational Training Institute, Ghaziabad

• Provincial Superior for North India

• Helping in the establishment of nine schools

These establishments have since been offering the best education and support possible for children in India and will continue to do so in his memory.

We are in urgent need of immediate funds and kindly ask for your help to raise them, which will cover:

• Funeral expenses

• Emergency visas and travel expenses to bring his children to the UK for the funeral

• Support for the children’s education and relocation, whilst we work to permanently bring them to the UK

Vincent passed away without a life insurance policy or much savings, and we are left with facing the heartbreaking task of saying goodbye and honouring his memory. No donation is too small and will provide immense support to his family whilst we mourn his passing.