THE family of a young boy who died suddenly at school will finally get to say their goodbyes almost three months after the tragedy.

Ryan Heffernan-Surplice’s family say they still don’t know the exact cause of the 12-year-old’s tragic death on March 28.

Ryan, 12, died following a medical emergency at Shoebury High School.

His family say Ryan will be brought back to his home in Shoebury for a wake on June 20 before holding his funeral at Southend Crematorium at 12pm on June 21.

His grieving mum Catherine Heffernan, 39 and of Shoebury, said: “We’ve been able to go ahead and arrange a funeral but we’ve still heard nothing from the coroner.

“We’re now able to close the chapter and finally lay him to rest.

“It’s bitter sweet to know he’s coming home but we can say our goodbyes at last in our own way. Friends and family are welcome to come to the house and say their goodbyes too.

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“We will then have a bit of a celebration of Ryan at the Salvation Army in Shoebury at about 1pm and the another chance for others to celebrate and raise a glass at the Ambleside Social Club from 2.30pm.

“It will bring some closure for us having the funeral and saying goodbye but it will be hard for us all.”

The mother of three said she will feel some relief at finally being able to lay Ryan to rest .

She says her family “no longer feel stuck in limbo” and organising the final farewell has kept her distracted as she waits to find out why Ryan died.

Paying tribute to him she added: “Everyone just misses him and we remember him as the sunny, cheeky little boy.

“He was just so loving and wanted everyone to be happy.”

Almost £17,000 has been raised by friends and supporters online for the family.

They joined together and took part in a special ride and balloon release on April 30 to remember him.

Supporters rode from Southchurch Park to Shoebury Park and onto Shoebury High School for the balloon release and more fundraising events.

Anyone who would like to donate to the JustGiving appeal for Ryan and his family should visit bit.ly/387ofJf