Family’s tributes to ‘loving and wonderful’ Craig, 35

Craig Seager, 35, has been described by his family as a ‘wonderful’ uncle, son and brother, who was devoted to his daughter and nieces and nephew.

His mum, Joan, of Fleming Avenue, said Sidmouth-born Craig took his own life following a long battle with depression which he suffered with from the age of 16, soon after the death of his father, Michael.

“His daughter, Neve, three, was his little princess – that’s what he called her,” said Joan.

“He was a wonderful uncle and his nieces and nephew were devoted to him.

“Craig was very sociable and he had lots of friends who have always been good to him.

“He was also a huge Tottenham Hotspur fan – he would get into a row with anyone over them.

“He loved his beer and the Balfour was really his local.”

A former Sidmouth College student, Craig went on to work at Fords of Sidmouth for many years, where Joan said his boss, Tim, was very good to him and understanding if he could not face things.

Craig moved to London about five years ago, but had been back and forwards many times since.

It was his childhood friend, Phil, who alerted the police when he could not get hold of Craig at the weekend.

Joan said the family battled for years with Craig’s illness and, although support and help was available, sometimes it was just not enough.

“I would like to make people more aware that, with mental illness, you can not just pull yourself together,” she added.

“Too many think because you can’t see depression, you do not have it.”

Craig’s sister, Natalie, said: “He idolised my three children and was like a dad to them in a way.”

Natalie said Craig would refer to his depression as his ‘black dog’.

Craig’s funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 23, at 1.30pm.

The family will leave from Joan’s house and walk behind a horse-drawn carriage to the St Francis of Assisi Church, Woolbrook, where anyone who would like to join family and friends is welcome.