Brave fundraiser Johnny Bliss loses battle with cancer

Mar 14 2009 by Paul Loraine, The Journal

Mrs Bliss said the family had been amazed by the level of respect and love shown around the region and beyond for “a very humble man”.

“I’m incredibly proud of him – he has touched so many hearts and will never be forgotten,” she said. “I’m getting emails from all over the world and lovely cards.

“It’s just amazing – you can’t believe the amount of support we’ve had. Johnny is my hero but for a man of Sir Bobby’s stature to say what he said about Johnny is just amazing.

“Johnny was extremely proud of what Sir Bobby said about him but never bragged. He took it all in his stride.

“Johnny was just the most charismatic and wonderful man in the world.”

Mr Bliss’s death also drew a warm message from Sir Bobby Robson, who said: “Johnny Bliss was one of the most courageous men I have ever known.

“He fought this disease with every ounce of his being, for many months after they thought he would have lost the fight, and yet he still found the energy to help others.

“For Johnny to spend time helping my charity, after being given such a short time to live, was just incredible. My wife Elsie and I are proud to have known him and our heartfelt thanks go out to his wonderful wife Shiela and his family – they have lost a very special, a very dignified and a very genuine man from their lives.”

Johnny, a former steel fabricator and musician, leaves behind children, Wesley and Tiffany, and granddaughter Lily.

His wife Sheila also has four children – John, Paul, Carolyn and Michelle, and grandchildren Talia and Freya.

His funeral is set to take place on Thursday at Washington’s Holy Trinity Church.