Heartbroken friend of Moray man killed in crash near Keith determined to ease funeral cost burden on grieving mum
A heartbroken woman has paid tribute to her “fun-loving” friend who tragically lost his life in a motorbike crash last month.
Dufftown resident Steven Smith, known as Stevo among his friends, was pronounced dead at the scene of the one-vehicle crash on the B9014 near Keith on January 27.
The 26-year-old’s death has left both his family and friends in a state of shock.
Erin Patterson, who knew Steven for 12 years, says she was “absolutely devastated” to hear of his passing adding that she “can’t believe he’s gone”.
She said: “Stevo was so full of life and he had the most infectious smile and laugh. He was loved by so many.
“He truly loved making people smile, spending time with friends and making the most of every moment.
“He was the kind of person who would light up a room just by being him.
“He will be hugely missed by his family and friends.”
In the aftermath of the incident, Erin decided to help Steven’s grieving family in any way she could.
Funeral costs totalling around £5000 have only added to the burden felt by Steven’s mum Moira as she comes to terms with the loss of her son.
Consequently, Erin has set up an online fundraiser.
“To start with, I contacted his friends to see if any of them could help and of course my husband and I will be contributing also,” Erin said.
“I just knew that Moira was so shocked. Her world had just crumbled so we had to try and ease some of the burden in any way we could and helping with funeral costs was the least I felt we could do for her.
“We’re just trying to help her through this difficult time and ease the burden on her because she is having to deal with so much on top of that at the moment.”
A link to the fundraiser can be found here.
