The family of a vibrant young woman are grappling with unimaginable grief following a tragic accident during severe winter weather. Eleisha Skinner, a 21-year-old former beauty queen with aspirations of becoming a social worker, died after what her parents describe as an unforeseeable incident involving a parked vehicle amidst icy conditions.
A Life Full of Promise Cut Short
Eleisha Skinner was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford after the accident but, despite fighting bravely, could not be saved. She passed away peacefully on January 8, surrounded by her close family and friends while listening to the song 'Beautiful' by One Direction. Her parents, Nigel and Clare Skinner, have spoken of their profound devastation.
Remembering a Kind and Selfless Spirit
In a heartfelt tribute, her family painted a picture of a remarkable young woman. "We are utterly devastated by the sudden loss of our precious girl," they said. "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. Nothing was ever too much for Eleisha. She had a heart of gold and a smile that could light up any room."
Eleisha was a former pupil in Faversham where she thrived academically and demonstrated natural leadership. She served as a vocal member of the school council, a peer mentor, and ultimately as Head Student in the Sixth Form. "Her leadership, warmth, and dedication shone through," her parents recalled. "Her instinct to help others was always present."
A Pillar of Her Community
Her community involvement was extensive and heartfelt. Crowned Miss Faversham in 2022, her genuine personality and love for her town were evident. She was later voted Miss Congeniality at the Miss Kent Dinner, an honour her family said was a "true reflection of her kind spirit." She was an active member of the Faversham Carnival Club, which became like a second family.
Her passions extended into sports, where she was a well-known figure at her local swimming club. She attended with her older brother, Kian, played water polo, and competed in synchronised swimming at the Kent Championships. Upon turning 18, she began volunteering as a teacher at the club. "She took great joy in creating routines and helping younger swimmers grow in confidence," her family shared. She was also a talented horse rider, winning numerous events over the years.
A Legacy of Kindness and Support
At the time of her death, Eleisha was studying at university, driven by her dream of becoming a social worker. "She loved meeting new people and quickly became a valued member of the team wherever she went," her family noted. She adored her cousins, was a wonderful role model to them, and shared an incredibly close bond with her brother, Kian, who is an officer in the Royal Navy. She was "immensely proud" of him and loved attending formal events by his side.
In the wake of this tragedy, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign in Eleisha's name to raise funds for the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, which they described as "fantastic." "As a family, we hope that through this heartbreaking loss, we can raise funds in Eleisha's name," they said. "If her story can help save another family from experiencing such pain, then her legacy of kindness will continue." The campaign has already raised over £3,500 through dozens of donations.
Community Tributes and Final Farewell
The family expressed their deepest thanks to the emergency services and the staff at the John Radcliffe Hospital. "Their compassion allowed us precious time to be with Eleisha in her final days," they said. The Faversham Carnival Club also paid tribute, stating: "Eleisha was a fantastic ambassador for Faversham and a truly lovely girl... Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this devastating time. Eleisha will be missed by so many."
A celebration of Eleisha's life will be held on Friday, February 6, at 2.30pm at St Mary of Charity Church in Faversham, followed by a wake at Judd's Folly. Her family concluded their tribute by saying, "Eleisha will forever remain in our hearts, our beautiful princess, whose love and light will never fade."
