A former beauty queen has tragically passed away at the age of 21 following an accident during severe icy weather conditions, with her devastated family paying heartfelt tribute to their 'precious girl'. Eleisha Skinner, who was crowned Miss Faversham in 2022, was a dedicated student at Buckinghamshire New University in High Wycombe and harboured ambitious dreams of becoming a social worker to make a positive difference in children's lives.
An Unforeseeable Incident in Harsh Conditions
The 21-year-old lost her life after what her family have described as 'an unforeseeable incident involving a parked vehicle' amidst treacherous, icy weather. She was swiftly transported to a hospital in Oxford where medical staff reported she 'fought bravely' for survival. Despite their best efforts, Eleisha was unable to recover and died peacefully on January 8, surrounded by her loving family and close friends.
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
Her heartbroken parents, Nigel and Clare Skinner, expressed their profound grief, stating: 'We are utterly devastated by the sudden loss of our precious girl. Writing these words feels unimaginable, yet we want the world to know who she truly was: a kind, selfless, passionate young woman who always put others before herself.' They emphasised that nothing was ever too much for Eleisha, highlighting her 'heart of gold' and a smile that 'could light up any room'.
A Life of Service and Community Spirit
Despite her naturally outgoing personality, her family admitted they were initially surprised when Eleisha decided to enter the Miss Faversham competition in 2022. However, she embraced the role with immense pride, using her platform to raise funds for local charities and the Faversham Carnival Club. Her dedication was recognised when she was later voted Miss Congeniality by the courts at the Miss Kent Dinner, an accolade her family said was a 'true reflection of her kind spirit'.
Academic and Extracurricular Achievements
Eleisha thrived during her school years in Faversham, attending St Mary's Primary School and later The Abbey School. She became a vocal member of the school council, served as a peer mentor, and was appointed head student in the Sixth Form. Academically and socially, she flourished, always eager to get involved, whether organising the school prom or fundraising for the Faversham Fire Brigade. Her family noted that her 'leadership, warmth, and dedication shone through', with an instinct to help others that was always present.
Passions and Personal Life
Well-known at her local swimming club, Eleisha attended with her older brother Kian and excelled in water polo. Her true passion, however, was synchronised swimming, where she competed at the Kent Championships. Upon turning 18, she became a volunteer teacher at the club, taking 'great joy in creating routines and helping younger swimmers grow in confidence'. She was also a talented horse rider, winning numerous events over the years.
In 2023, Eleisha met the love of her life, Max, who quickly became an integral part of the family. She balanced her studies with part-time work at the Red Lion pub in Badlesmere and gained valuable experience through placements at Little Moonbeams Nursery and the Whitstable School. Her family remarked that 'she loved meeting new people and quickly became a valued member of the team' wherever she went.
Deep Family Bonds and Lasting Legacy
Above all, Eleisha was described as a 'devoted family girl' who adored spending time with her cousins and was a wonderful role model to them. She shared an exceptionally close bond with her brother Kian, expressing immense pride in his achievement of becoming an officer in the Royal Navy. She cherished attending dinners and balls with him, 'always glowing with pride and elegance'.
Community Outpouring and Fundraising Efforts
Tributes have flooded social media, with friends remembering her 'beautiful soul' and 'infectious smile'. A GoFundMe page has been launched in Eleisha's name to support the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, a service the family described as 'fantastic'. They expressed hope that through this heartbreaking loss, they can raise funds to 'help save another family from experiencing such pain', ensuring her 'legacy of kindness will continue'. To date, more than £2,000 has been raised through dozens of donations honouring the young woman.
Gratitude to Emergency Services
The family extended their deepest thanks to the emergency services and the staff at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxfordshire. They stated that the compassion shown allowed them 'precious time to be with Eleisha in her final days, surrounded by close family and friends'. Eleisha fought bravely but, due to a lack of oxygen to her brain, did not regain consciousness. She passed away peacefully while listening to 'Beautiful' by One Direction.
The Faversham Carnival Club also paid tribute, saying: 'Eleisha was a fantastic ambassador for Faversham and a truly lovely girl. We all have some lovely memories of our time spent with her. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this devastating time. Eleisha will be missed by so many.' The family has thanked the community for their 'overwhelming love, kindness, and support', adding that 'Eleisha will forever remain in our hearts, our beautiful princess, whose love and light will never fade.'
