Damilola Taylor: Murdered schoolboy's father Richard Taylor dies

Richard Taylor, the dad of the murdered pupil Damilola Taylor, has passed away at the age of 75.

After his son was killed on his way back from the library in 2000, Mr Taylor worked relentlessly to raise awareness about gang violence in the city. He campaigned non-stop against these heinous acts taking place in London.

Before his tragic death, Damilola had aspirations of becoming a doctor. He had recently taken up residence in London after leaving Nigeria. Sadly, he was discovered severely injured and bleeding heavily from a stab wound to the leg caused by a broken beer bottle in a nearby stairwell in Peckham.

The family of Mr. Taylor released a message informing the public of the sad news of his passing. Mr. Taylor was a dear father, grandfather, and uncle who held the prestigious title of OBE. He passed away in the early hours of Saturday, March 23rd, at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Woolwich after fighting prostate cancer for a long period of time. The family is deeply saddened by his loss.

In May 2001, the parents of Damilola Taylor, Mr. Taylor and Gloria Taylor, founded the Damilola Taylor Trust in remembrance of their late son. The main goal of the trust is to offer hope and opportunities to underprivileged young people. Gloria Taylor passed away at the age of 57 in 2008.

In the month of October 2006, Ricky and Danny Preddie, who are siblings, were found guilty of manslaughter in the case of Damilola and were sentenced to eight years in prison. This decision was reached after going through three crown court trials.

Back in 2020, Boris Johnson, who was the prime minister at the time, made a decision to mark Damilola's birthday, which falls on 7 December, as a Day Of Hope. This annual celebration is a way to recognize and support the efforts of the trust and the Hope Collective.

Mr Taylor worked as a government official in Nigeria before becoming an advocate against knife crime. He was chosen by former prime minister Gordon Brown to serve as an anti-knife crime envoy in 2009 and he received an OBE for his efforts in decreasing violence among young people.

During the Respect Your Life Not A Knife campaign in 2006, he collaborated with professional football player Rio Ferdinand, who was part of Damilola's favorite team at that time, Manchester United.

The writer unveiled that Damilola's final sighting was by John Boyega, an actor from the movie Star Wars.

In 2017, the moving drama Damilola, Our Loved Boy was awarded a BAFTA. During his acceptance speech, Mr. Taylor used his emotions to make a plea for an end to the stabbings that were happening on the streets of London.

He announced that he was dedicating the award to his late son, and expressed a call to young individuals who are engaged in self-destructive behaviors on the streets to reconsider their actions.

Mothers and fathers are weeping... there has been a notable increase in homicide cases in London. I implore you: refrain from senselessly taking the lives of innocent individuals and pass on the message.

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Brooke Kinsella, an actress who previously appeared in EastEnders, paid her respects to Mr. Taylor. He had previously supported a march against knife-related violence in central London in 2008, which was spearheaded by the Ben Kinsella Trust. This organization was created by Brooke Kinsella in honor of her younger brother Ben, who was fatally stabbed in Islington at the age of 16.

She expressed that Richard's bravery during an unbearable tragedy was motivating to her.

Following the devastating death of his son, Damilola, he decided to dedicate his energy towards ensuring a better future for everyone. Instead of succumbing to his grief, he transformed his heartache into an unwavering quest to prevent other families from encountering similar sorrow.

After Ben's killing, Richard became a tight pal and a trustworthy companion. He shared his determination and solid faith in righteousness.

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On the website of X, the leader of the Labour Party, Sir Keir Starmer, expressed that Richard had actively supported the aim of abolishing obstacles to access opportunities by means of the Damilola Taylor Trust, which was created as a tribute to his child.

People will always remember him for his bravery, persistence, and optimistic message. I offer my sympathy to Richard's loved ones and companions.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, expressed his condolences for the passing of Mr. Taylor. He recognized Mr. Taylor's lifelong commitment to his son, Damilola, and his dedication to providing positive opportunities for young people to have a bright future. The mayor hopes that Mr. Taylor rests in peace and continues to impact future generations.

On a certain day, Dawn Butler, the MP for Brent Central from the Labour party expressed her sympathy to the kin of Richard Taylor. Butler stated that Taylor was an admirable individual and someone whom she was closely acquainted with. She then offered her condolences to his family.

I will miss the comforting guidance that he bestowed upon me with his compassionate words. It is my hope that he is granted everlasting tranquility and that he is once again together with Damilola in the afterlife.

Florence Eshalomi, who serves as the Member of Parliament for Vauxhall under the Labour Party, expressed her sympathy about the distressing news she recently received.

Uncle Richard was a powerful individual who carried the torch and inheritance for the Damilola Taylor Trust.

I am currently re-reading the most recent message I received from him, in which he was discussing the Trust's work. He has since found peace alongside his dear son and spouse.