TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Worcester mayor who died of a ‘broken heart’.

Ray Turner, who lived in the Arboretum part of the city, passed away on August 19 of natural causes, just three days before his 88th birthday.

His family say he never got over the death of his wife Joy.

Ray was the mayor in 1992 and a Labour city councillor for 30 years. He opened Sabrina Bridge alongside Joy. His name is marked on the plaque.

His daughter, Dawn Turner, said: “The grandchildren all thought he built the bridge. Whenever we cross the bridge, they tell everybody that it's his bridge.”

Ray had six children, 21 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

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He met Joy, who passed away 14 years ago, when they were in their teens. The couple got married within only five months of knowing each other. While everyone told them they ‘wouldn't last’, their song became Too Young by Nat King Cole, which was played at their wedding and Joy’s funeral – and will also be played at Ray’s.

Dawn added: “He was devoted to our mum. When she passed away, we got him a border collie to keep him going. He died of a broken heart. He was never the same person without mum. He couldn’t cope without her."

Ray joined the Royal Navy and was sent to Korea as a gunner and did not see Joy for two-and-a-half years.

Dawn added: “They were quite a quirky couple. My dad was very charismatic, friendly and a passionate man. He had his principles and was very proactive. He liked to help people.”

The pair took part in fundraising activities and campaigns to open the Acorns Hospice in Worcester, where Princess Diana attended the opening.

Ray requested for his coffin to be designed to look like a motorcycle and side cart because he was a passionate motorist. He was also an environmental activist and wished for it to be made from wicker.

Everyone is welcome to attend the funeral which will take place on September 27 at 1.45pm at Worcester Crematorium, in Astwood Cemetery.