Hundreds of people gathered in a Moray town last night to say an emotional farewell to a 10-year-old boy who died in his sleep.
Jayden Ravello’s parents Michelle and Kerry had arranged for his friends to release balloons and lanterns in his honour at a modest memorial event in Elgin’s Cooper Park.
But more than 500 people turned out to pay their respects to the youngster who “did everything with a smile”.
PICTURES: Hundreds gather for emotional fairwell to Jayden, 10, who died in his sleep
Seafield Primary School pupil Jayden was found dead in bed at his family’s home in Elgin’s Reynolds Crescent.
Last night, Mrs Ravello said she had been “overwhelmed” by the turnout – and vowed to make sure her “beautiful boy” would never be forgotten.
The 29-year-old said: “Jayden had the brightest eyes that would fill any room, and a cheeky smile that would make anyone grin.
“We just wanted to light up the sky for him, at this time of year it can be so dull and we wanted it to be as beautiful as our son.
“He did everything with a smile, and it’s a comfort to us to know that he touched so many lives in his 10 years.”
Mrs Ravello added: “I know people sometimes don’t like bringing children to funerals, so my intention was to offer Jayden’s friends a chance to say ‘see you later’ to him.
“We were absolutely blown away by how many people attended, it took my breath away.
“It was over and above what we expected for our boy.”
Mr Ravello, who serves at RAF Lossiemouth, added: “I was beyond shocked when I saw how many people were at Cooper Park, we never expected anything like that.”
Crowds began gathering at the park from 4.30pm, and the balloons were released at 5.30pm.
As they drifted upwards, the clouds parted to reveal patches of blue sky emerged.
Jayden’s tragic death was marked elsewhere in Elgin when Moray Council illuminated the town’s Pansport Bridge blue and orange – his favourite colours.
Mrs Ravello described the close relationship Jayden shared with his younger brother, Tyrese, whose forthcoming sixth birthday was marked with a get-together yesterday.
The family made the tough decision to go ahead with a party that had been arranged for Tyrese and his friends, because they knew it’s what Jayden would have wanted.
Mrs Ravello added: “Jayden is Tyrese’s hero, he would follow his big brother everywhere.
“Jayden loved a party and would do anything he could for his wee bro.”
Jayden had recently started P6, and was an eager reader who excelled in maths and art lessons.
The youngster was also a skilled kickboxer who won numerous trophies and medals, and was due to be assessed for his black belt in April.
In December last year, he was overjoyed when the family finally bought a pair of pugs – named Jasper and Jackson – after he spent years longing for two of the dogs as pets.
Jayden’s family also described cherished memories of trips along the Moray coast, where he enjoyed scouring rockpools and exploring caves.
Mrs Ravello said: “He would never want to just sit around, Jayden was always on the go.”
An online collection for the Ravello family has raised almost £5,000 from well-wishers.
Jayden’s parents are yet to decide on what to do with the money, but want to put it towards a tribute to him.
