Loved ones of tragic Jamie Grant are today preparing to say their last goodbyes.
The 27-year-old's family were left devastated after his body was found near the River Derwent almost a month after he vanished from his Gateshead home.
And they are now faced with the heartbreaking task of getting ready for Jamie's funeral, which will be held at Saltwell Crematorium on Wednesday.
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His mum, Andrea, said: "It's something I never thought I would have to do in a million years. You never imagine you will have to plan your son's funeral."
Jamie was reported missing on February 8.
Northumbria Police launched a search operation as friends and family took to the streets close to where he lived, in Whickham, Gateshead, in a desperate bid to find him.
But on Friday March 4 their worst fears became a reality when his body was found near the River Derwent.
Jamie was the eldest of five children and was an outgoing lad while growing up. But he began suffering from mental health problems in his early 20s and was later diagnosed with schizophrenia.
With the right medication and support from his loving family and social workers Jamie was able to live independently at his home in Whickham.
Andrea, 47, last saw Jamie on the evening before he vanished when he came over for tea. His mum took him home and it was agreed she would return the next day with some shopping for him.
Andrea knew instantly that something was wrong when she arrived at Jamie’s flat to discover he was not there and called the police.
Jamie also leaves dad Kelvin Roxby, 67, and siblings Bradley, 17, Alisha, 15, Mica, 26 and 11-year-old Kylie.
At his funeral, which starts at 2.30pm, Jamie's family will be collecting donations for the mental health charity Mind.
Andrea, of Beacon Lough, added: "I just hope it will help another family. There has been so many lives lost due to mental health.
Jamie’s death is not being treated as suspicious.
