The quaint Kent village of Sandway became the setting for a heartfelt goodbye on Monday, as friends, family, and fans gathered to pay tribute to James Whale.
Known for his bold radio banter and unmistakable voice, James passed away last month at 74 after a long battle with cancer.
His final sendoff was as unique as his personality, culminating in arrows being fired over his grave, a symbolic nod to his love for the unconventional.
A Star-Studded Service
The ceremony at St Nicolas Church drew numerous familiar faces.
Reform leader Nigel Farage attended in a dark suit and black tie, accompanied by Lizzie Cundy, while TV presenter Eamonn Holmes, singer Matt Goss, Jeremy Kyle, and comedian Bobby Davro also paid their respects.
Soul legend Leee John and veteran actor Christopher Biggins were among the mourners who later gathered at James’s favorite local pub to continue celebrating his life.
A Son’s Heartfelt Tribute
James’s son, James Junior, delivered an emotional tribute, recalling moments from his father’s battle with cancer. “Dad had a kidney removed when he was first diagnosed.
I visited him in hospital, and he only had the strength to hold my hand. I remember that like it was yesterday,” he shared.
He spoke of his father’s positive energy, his dedication to charity work, and the shared struggles following the loss of his mother.
He concluded with a touching declaration: “I love you dad, thank you for all the good times. I will kiss you so much.”
Love and Laughter with Nadine
Widow Nadine Lamont Brown also shared memories of their time together.
Meeting seven years ago, their relationship, though brief, was filled with joy, laughter, and deep love.
She described James as authentic, outspoken, and stirring strong emotions in everyone around him.
With gentle humor, she recalled his burial wishes: “James didn’t want a traditional wooden coffin.
In the end, it’s a woven wool one — environmentally friendly, I hope he isn’t cross!”
She shared that he would be buried in the suit he wore when he received his MBE, along with his headphones and an arrow, a nod to his playful spirit.
Music, Memories, and Mourning
The ceremony featured heartfelt performances, including Matt Goss singing a version of Frank Sinatra’s classic with James’s name added to the lyrics.
James’s brother Keith shared memories of his sibling’s broadcasting career, highlighting how much energy radio gave him despite the toll it took.
Keith also reflected on James’s impressive journey from leaving school with just one CSE to earning an MBE and leaving a lasting professional impact.
A Career Remembered
James’s career spanned over six decades, with stints at the BBC, LBC, and Talk Radio, along with appearances on Celebrity Big Brother.
He faced kidney cancer first in 2000, undergoing surgery that saved his life, and later launched the James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer to support research and awareness.
Sadly, the disease returned in 2020 and spread to his spine, brain, and lungs.
Final Moments and Reflections
In the weeks before his death, James shared his reflections in a posthumous column for the Express.
Open and candid, he spoke of the challenges of his illness, his gratitude for loved ones and medical staff, and his enduring love for Britain.
Even as his health declined, he remained humorous, reflective, and unapologetically himself, urging fans to cherish their loved ones.
A Peaceful Passing
James passed away gently, leaving behind fond memories and a legacy of courage and wit.
Nadine confirmed his peaceful departure, while colleagues and friends expressed how much quieter the world felt without his presence.
Mere hours before his death, his final column revealed a man at peace, comforted by hospice care, and grateful for the time he had left.
Celebrating Life, Not Mourning Death
The funeral closed with a uniquely personal touch — arrows over the coffin, live music, and laughter mixed with tears.
Mourners were then invited to a lively wake, honoring James’s wishes for celebration rather than solemnity.
His life, marked by joy, controversy, and authenticity, was remembered in true James Whale style — unforgettable, bold, and deeply human.