Husband overwhelmed by support following Mikala's tragic death three weeks after wedding

THE husband of tragic Mikala Jones said he has been overwhelmed by the support from friends and relatives – after an appeal to help fund her funeral raised £2,000 in a matter of days. Matt Jones thanked those who helped towards the mammoth total since an online web page was created after her death. The courageous cancer sufferer, who died earlier this month, at Grimsby's Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital will be buried in her wedding dress. Hundreds paid tribute after the 26-year-old died unexpectedly less than three weeks after her wedding – and before she had chance to go on her honeymoon.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, March 11, from 1pm, at St Peter's Church, Cleethorpes.

Related: http://www.sheindressaustralia.com/wedding-dresses-2015-2016

It will be conducted by the Reverend Paul Hunter, who conducted Mikala and Matt's wedding service at the church on January 30. Matt told how his wife, who battled with cancer for nearly four years, will be buried in her beloved wedding dress at a service at Cleethorpes cemetery.

Matt said: "It is nice that people are generous and willing to help. I don't want to come across as a beggar, but I can't afford the service we all want Mikala to have and I still can't.

"The way people have responded shows how much people cared for her. Lots of people have been round with flowers, cards and support."

He said: "I really wanted the Reverend Hunter to conduct the service. He is an amazing man and he did a fantastic job at the wedding. He made it very personal. He will do a good job."

Two black doves will be released at the funeral service, just as Matt and Mikala had released two white doves at their reception at Millfields Hotel, Grimsby.

Matt thanked dove release firm Ebony and Ivory for providing the birds.

He also thanked Mashfords funeral directors for their support in organising the service.

As reported, Matt proposed to Mikala at Cleethorpes Working Men's Club by dropping an engagement ring into a glass of champagne at a surprise party.

The event in August raised nearly £3,000 to support Matt and Mikala, and they enjoyed holiday breaks in Whitby and London.

Also see: http://www.sheindressaustralia.com/plus-size-wedding-dresses