'He was truly loved' - Sunderland celebrates life of David Doran after sudden and tragic death at 35

David Doran, 35, was found dead at his South Hylton home last month – and hundreds of people packed out a service in his memory at Sunderland Crematorium on Thursday, March 12.

The moving celebration of David’s life remembered him as a “gentle and dignified” soul, who lived for his family and friends, loved music, enjoyed cooking and was a fantastic dancer.

A heartfelt eulogy, delivered by a celebrant at the city’s crematorium, told guests that David was “brimming with every good quality a human can possess” – and that his death, which “came suddenly in the end, didn’t ask, didn’t warn”, was a huge shock to everyone who knew and loved him.

The service spoke of the “shadows and demons” which had affected the beloved son, brother, uncle and cousin’s life, but also told how David was always the first to try and pick someone up if they were feeling down.

He was a practical joker, who kept everyone on their toes and loved making people laugh – playing pranks on his brothers, sisters and parents from when he was a youngster.

David, who spent 12 months in Gran Canaria and performed in drag shows abroad, worked at Kwik Save, Marks & Spencer, in Jacky White’s market and eventually as a manager at Joseph’s pub in the town centre.

He also loved going on holiday with his friends and partner and spending time at the beach.

The celebrant’s address delivered a special message for all of those who were grieving, and added: “David Doran, you were a one off. And he was truly loved.

“Thank you David for making us better people, because we are all better having known you.”

Following the service, a collection of beautiful floral arrangements were placed outside Sunderland Crematorium in an array of striking colours, including yellow and white, orange, blue and rainbow-themed.

A donation box, provided by Tony Clarke Funeral Directors in South Hylton, was also set up at the service so people could pay their respects.

David is survived by his parents Sue and Alan, brothers and sisters Susan, Michael, Lindsey, Mark and Megan, partner Dave, grandmother Mary, auntie Michelle as well as dozens of other much-loved relatives and friends.

Mourners at the service heard how proud David was of his family, and how he always liked to keep them close.

The celebrant added: “He was a soul that brought joy and fulfilment.”

In the wake of David’s death, a fundraising page was set up to support his loved ones with the cost of a funeral.

More than 30 people made donations online, raising more than £1,000, and also shared their own touching tributes and special memories of treasured times they spent with David, who was loved by so many.