A devoted couple died just 33 hours of each other weeks after celebrating their 53rd wedding anniversary.
Doug and Jean Seabridge, from Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, had built a life together filled with “love, kindness and laughter”.
Doug died peacefully following a short illness, with his heartbroken wife announcing his death online.
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Less than two days later, Jean tragically passed away as well, as reported by Need To Know.
Their devastated family said the inseparable couple had been each other’s best friends and felt Jean “simply couldn’t bear to be apart” from her husband.
They said: “Together in life, together in eternity – taken within 33 hours of each other.
“Our hearts are broken, and we reach out to you today with immense sadness to share the devastating news that we have lost both our beloved Mum and Dad, Grandad and Grandma, Auntie and Uncle, brother and sister and dear friend to many.
“Our wonderful Doug and Jean Seabridge.”
Doug and Jean married on 22 September 1973 and marked their 53rd anniversary shortly before their deaths.
After Doug died, she described him as the “mainstay” of their family.
She said the keen bowls player had continued playing regularly at Belvedere Bowls Club until becoming unwell.
The couple’s family said losing them during the same weekend had left relatives overwhelmed both emotionally and practically.
They added: “They were inseparable.
“They built a life full of love, kindness and laughter.
“They were each other’s best friend, and it showed in everything they did.
“When one left this world, it felt as though the other simply couldn’t bear to be apart.
“They have gone home together, hand in hand, just as they lived.”
A fundraiser has been launched to help cover the cost of giving Doug and Jean a joint funeral.
It has raised more than £1,700 towards its £3,000 target.
The couple’s funeral is due to take place on 6 November.
The family said there would be no formal dress code and asked mourners to wear whatever made them feel comfortable.
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