Archie York’s funeral was a heartfelt tribute as a suspect faced court for his tragic death in Newcastle
Newcastle: A seven-year-old boy named Archie York was laid to rest in a special Marvel-themed funeral. This happened on the same day a man appeared in court charged with his manslaughter.
Archie tragically lost his life in an explosion at his home on Violet Close in Benwell on October 16. The man charged, Reece Galbraith, 33, denied the manslaughter of Archie and another victim, Jason “Jay” Laws, who also died in the blast.
Galbraith appeared via video link at Newcastle Crown Court, where he also denied charges related to cannabis production and supply. His trial is set to start on May 12 and is expected to last about a week.
At West Road Crematorium, friends and family gathered to say their goodbyes to Archie, who was a student at Bridgewater Primary School. Many wore Marvel-themed clothing, honoring the family’s wishes.
As Archie’s coffin was brought in, it was pulled by two grey horses, and it was adorned with Marvel comic characters. Each horse wore a blanket with Archie’s name, one featuring Spiderman and the other The Hulk.
On top of the coffin, there were toys, a helmet, and a heart-shaped bouquet with a Marvel logo. The service was led by a humanist, and flowers spelling “son” and “grandson” were also placed on the carriage.
Archie’s parents, Katherine and Robbie, shared their heartbreak, saying he was not just their son but their best friend. They expressed how much he lit up every room and how he will always be remembered, especially by his baby brother Finley, who looks just like him.
