A FAMILY man who was much-loved within the community has passed away.
Edward John Scarisbrick formerly worked at Rowlands Pharmacy in Newton-le-Willows for 20 years and was widely known around the area.
He passed away at the age of 46 in the early morning of Tuesday September 27.
He was in hospital when he died as he had been admitted due to issues with his mental health, which prompted his loved ones to encourage people to donate to the British Heart Foundation and Movember, a men’s mental health charity.
The cause of his death is not yet confirmed.
Edward, known as Eddie, has been described as a "kind, generous, and thoughtful man" who "always thought of others before himself."
His family have shared their stories that reflect Edward’s thoughtful nature, with his wife Sam explaining how he once dressed up as Darth Vader one Christmas to surprise their son Jacob as he had wanted a lightsaber and someone to play with.
Eddie had stayed up that Christmas to put a tree up for their daughter Alice, who didn’t know if Father Christmas would be able to fit presents under a small tree.
Sam also shared a story that showed Eddie’s commitment to his work and the community during his time at the Newton pharmacy.
She said: "He was very committed to working as a Pharmacist, so much so our second date, first day of honeymoon, and children’s first Christmas were spent together in the pharmacy as Ed was on rota and didn’t want his staff to miss Christmas with their families.
"You most probably gathered work was always his priority over everything; he always went above and beyond making sure patients had medicines, advice and support their needs.
"He saved lives by listening to them and making sure they got the treatment they needed."
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His contribution within the community includes volunteer work and helping locals with their needs.
Many residents in Newton have paid tribute to the late pharmacist on social media, with several describing him as a "true gentleman" and a "lovely, helpful person."
One commented: "Edward was a lovely man who always had time for people and gave good advice; he will be very missed by the people of Newton-le-Willows."
The Funeral Service and Committal will take place on Tuesday October 18 at 11am at West Lancashire Crematorium.
For further information on Movember and its work towards men's mental health, visit https://uk.movember.com/mens-health/mental-health.
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