12/02/2026
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Percy on 10 February 2026, following a sudden asthma attack at work.
Percy’s life was not defined by what he lost, but by what he built. At just 11 years old, after losing both his parents, Percy came to Epworth carrying unimaginable grief. He arrived quiet and unsure, facing medical challenges, gaps in his education, and the deep ache of being alone in the world. The odds were heavy — but so was his courage.
With support, structure, and care, Percy began to rise. He committed himself fully to every opportunity, worked through his health challenges, embraced therapy and life skills development, and rebuilt his education step by step. What could have broken him instead shaped him.
Over time, Percy grew into a steady and thoughtful young leader. Younger children looked up to him as a brother — someone safe, someone wise beyond his years. His educational progress was extraordinary, leading him back into mainstream schooling where he completed his senior grades. He excelled in sport, becoming a provincial middle-distance athlete and playing first-team rugby. He carried himself with quiet determination and a growing vision for his future.
After leaving Epworth, Percy continued forward with the same resolve. He studied at Marcolpolo and qualified, moving into a skilled work environment. For the last five years, he worked as a dynamometer operator. He established himself in his community, built strong relationships, and created his own little family.
Most beautifully, Percy never forgot where he came from. He remained connected to Epworth, offering guidance and support to younger children as they prepared to step into the world. Whether through advice, encouragement, practical help, or simply being present, Percy gave back with an open heart. The support he once received became the support he freely offered.
Percy leaves behind a loving partner and two children, including his youngest, a six-month-old chosen son. His life is a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of consistent love. He overcame profound hardship and turned it into purpose, standing tall not because life was easy, but because he chose to keep moving forward.
We celebrate the man he became.
We honour the strength it took to become him.
And we will carry his legacy of giving back in the years to come.
Forever part of the Epworth family. 💛
