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'Always smiling': Sharjah expat family bids tearful farewell to son killed in bike crash
More than 50 mourners gathered at the Sharjah Cremation Centre in Juwaiza, sharing heartfelt tributes and fond memories of Jefferson Justin
- PUBLISHED: Thu 7 Aug 2025, 2:41 PM
Family, friends, and well-wishers came together to bid an emotional farewell to 27-year-old Jefferson Justin, who tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident in London.
More than 50 mourners gathered at the Sharjah Cremation Centre in Juwaiza, sharing heartfelt tributes and fond memories of the “always smiling” young man.
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"We wanted a very private service, but several of his friends and schoolmates turned up," his father, Justin, told Khaleej Times. "He was very popular among friends, and they all wanted to honour him in their way. As a family, we are relieved with the closure we have gotten after burying him. For the past several days, the thought of his body lying alone in the mortuary was very difficult for us."
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Jefferson died in a bike crash in Leeds, UK on July 25 while on the way back home from work. His body was repatriated to the UAE after formalities were completed late Wednesday. "We are very grateful to the UAE Embassy in the UK for their support," said his father. "One official stayed in constant touch, updating us on every development. It was a huge relief during a very trying time."
Emotional service
During the service, several people spoke about Jefferson and shared their memories. "His school principal spoke as did a teacher who has been a close family friend of ours for many years," said Justin. "One friend shared memories on behalf of his group of friends. Even a social worker who knew Jefferson paid tribute."
Justin learned new things about his son during the ceremony. “A friend recounted how, after getting into mischief at school, Jefferson would walk up to the teacher with a goofy smile,” he said. “The teacher couldn’t help but laugh instead of scolding him. We had never heard that story before. It was heartwarming to know his friends hold such fond memories of him.”
Jack of all trades
Jefferson, the middle of three brothers, grew up in Sharjah and was known for his vibrant personality and wide range of talents. His father Justin described him as a “jack of all trades” and a hardworking individual.
"From childhood, he was into dancing and singing,” he recalled. “As he grew older, he began to write lyrics and perform them as a rapper. He loved photography as well. When he went to London, he would go on leisurely bike rides across the countryside and send us photos and videos.”
Justin added that he never shied away from any kind of work. “Even when he was studying, he held a part-time job,” he said. “He would do any kind of job and worked hard at every role he took. At one point, he even used to help with loading and unloading at a club. He never asked us for money and was very resourceful and self-sufficient. You would never see him without a smile and a kind word for those around him.”
