A HEARTBROKEN family has paid tribute to a loving dad-of-three who was always there to listen to others.

John Moore was found dead in Lower Castle Park, in Colchester, last Thursday morning following an ongoing battle with his mental health.

The 39-year-old, who leaves behind two daughters and a son, has been described as a “wonderful son” and “amazing daddy”.

Gazette:

Memories - John as a young boy 

His mother Susan Moore is still coming to terms with John’s death.

She said: “He was always there to listen to other people and he was the best daddy his children could have ever hoped for.”

The 62-year-old, from Hornchurch, explained how John had been struggling with his mental health for a long time.

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John dated Eastender’s actress Gemma McCluskie who was brutally murdered by her brother Tony in 2012.

“Gemma and John were together for four years, and her death affected him a lot,” Ms Moore said.

“He had a lot to deal with but never spoke to anyone about her death.”

John suffered with ADHD and had a personality disorder which impacted him during the later part of his life.

He worked as a self-employed painter and decorator and was living with a friend in Colchester before the coronavirus pandemic started.

But in the 11 months prior to his death, he was living alone in a housing association home fearing he may be moved into a hostel.

Gazette:

Loved - John will be remembered as a loving dad 

“In the end, he felt like there was no way out,” Ms Moore said.

“I tried everything to help over the years, he even moved back in with me.”

Ms Moore said John’s childhood friends have been a comfort since his untimely death.

“It’s been so sad, but John’s old friends have been amazingly supportive,” she added.

John grew up in Bethnal Green, London, with his parents and brother Terry, now 36.

They moved to Romford, in Essex, when John was 17.

Ms Moore is arranging John’s funeral and has launched a fundraising page.

She said: “If anyone is suffering with their mental health, they should reach out and contact somebody who can help as I don’t want anyone feeling or suffering the way we are right now.”

Donate via https://bit.ly/3znE8o9.

If you are struggling in any way contact the Samaritans on samaritans.org.