Popular crew member laid to rest at sea by devoted widow

DAVID Taylor had two loves in his life – his wife Pam and the sea.

David, who spent his 45-year career at sea, died suddenly last year, just days after his 60th birthday.

David Taylor (left and inset) pictured with fellow crew members on board the Spurn Haven 2.
Mrs Taylor with her grandson Ryan Warr, who was born in the months following the death of her husband David.

Last month, Pam scattered her husband's ashes over the North Sea, in a special service aboard the ship David worked on as chief engineer for the last three years

David Taylor (left) pictured with fellow crew members on board the Spurn Haven 2.

Over the last year, Pam (62) has been overwhelmed by the help and support she has received from the crew of the Spurn Haven 2.

Pam said: "His crew has been absolutely fantastic. I don't know how to thank them."

David's shipmates visited Pam in hospital, kept in touch with her, and when she felt the time was right, took her out to spread David's ashes at sea.

David loved his life at sea.

Pam said: "They took me into the engine room and showed me where he sat and worked. They just wanted me to feel part of what David did. It was wonderful."

After undergoing a five-year apprenticeship on the tugs at Immingham, David became a chief engineer at the age of just 27. He later went into the Merchant Navy but came out after meeting Pam at Swigs Coffee shop in Grimsby 20 years ago. They married nine years later.

Mrs Taylor with her grandson Ryan Warr, who was born in the months following the death of her husband David.

Pam said: "I just took one look at David and I fell in love with him. From that day we were just inseparable."

Pam intends to join her husband – and her father who was also a seaman – at sea, when her time comes, but for now, she is enjoying the blessing of grandson Ryan, who was born in the months following David's death.

David also has two stepsons, Steven and Paul.