Community to Celebrate Life of Fabian Henry at Lewisham Nine Night Memorial
A Nine Night remembrance celebration will be held on Saturday, July 19, to honour the life of 12-year-old Fabian Henry, the aspiring footballer who tragically died in a flat fire on Orchard Gardens earlier this month.
The event will take place from 3pm until late at The House, SE13 7LE, and is open to all wishing to celebrate Fabian’s life, offer support to his grieving family, and share fond memories.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish or bottle, with donations on the night going towards funeral expenses and helping the family recover from the devastating loss.
“He Brought Light and Love to Everyone Who Knew Him”
A flyer promoting the event reads:
“Please join us as we come together to honour and celebrate the life of our beloved Fabian.
Fabian brought light and love to everyone who knew him.
He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”
Fabian Henry died shortly before midnight on July 8, after a fire tore through a second-floor flat on Orchard Gardens, Lewisham Road. The blaze caused severe damage to the property and spread to surrounding units.
Three people managed to escape. A 54-year-old woman was treated at the scene for injuries. Fabian could not be saved.
Talented Footballer, Devoted Manchester United Fan
Fabian’s aunt, Suezette Edwards, described the young boy as a gifted footballer and a devoted Manchester United supporter.
“His father had died from cancer. He was lovely. The family wanted him to be a doctor. He was very good at football. We are all heartbroken,” she said.
One of Fabian’s former teachers recalled:
“He was always the captain—always up for everything. He could play any position.
When he saw me, he still gave me a big hug and told me how many goals he’d scored.
He was a pleasure to teach. I wish all kids were like him.”
Over £11,500 Raised to Support Grieving Family
A GoFundMe campaign titled “Lewisham’s aspiring young footballer Fabian Henry and Family” has raised over £11,500 to support Fabian’s mother and relatives with funeral costs and the replacement of vital belongings lost in the fire.
Fundraiser co-organiser Dinah Isaac, a relative, wrote:
“The money will not solve this atrocity or ease the pain the family are feeling, but it will help cover necessities so they can grieve without financial worry.”
Investigation Continues
The London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police are continuing their joint investigation into the fire. While the cause has not been confirmed, authorities say it is not currently believed to be suspicious.
Detective Chief Inspector Danian Reid said:
“This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with everyone involved.
We continue to work alongside London Fire Brigade to establish the cause of the fire.
We understand the impact this will have on the community and there will be local officers in the area as enquiries continue.”
How to Help
- Attend the Nine Night: Saturday, July 19, from 3pm, at The House, SE13 7LE
- Donate to the family fundraiser: GoFundMe – Fabian Henry and Family