William Pedley, 15, was found on his family’s farm’s in Barbon after being reported missing the day before.
A fundraising page has raised almost £3,000 in under a week with donations going to Papyrus, a charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide in the UK.
Described as a ‘celebration’ of William’s life, the dedication reads: “Will passed away tragically at home on the family farm in Barbon, on 28th August 2025, aged 15 years. Beloved and treasured son of Richard and Jess, proud and loving big brother to Oliver and Evie, an adored grandson, nephew, cousin, friend and teammate who will be greatly missed by so many people.”
William was an active member of the Young Farmers as well as a Kirkby Lonsdale Rugby Club.
A spokesperson for National Farmers’ Union Cumbria said: “Our thoughts are with County Vice chair and Uplands Representative Richard and his family. Truly devastating news.”
A dedicated rugby player for Kirkby Lonsdale RUFC, the club announced a series of events marking William’s death starting with a minute’s silence at their game on Saturday.
The club said: “Kirkby Lonsdale Rugby Club is saddened by the premature death of one of its junior rugby players, Will Pedley. Will was a tremendous child and loved by all. Will had played at the club for 10 years and was a cornerstone of his team. Will was brave, courageous, popular and liked by all.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Will’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
Kirkby Lonsdale RUFC observe a minute’s silence in William’s memory (Image: Kirkby Lonsdale RUFC)
The rugby club house was open from 11.30am on Sunday for children and parents to pay their respects.
Cumbrian farmer Hannah Jackson, known as the Red Shepherdess, posted a tribute on her Facebook page, saying: “Heartbroken to share the devastating update. There are no words but our thoughts are with the Pedley family at this incredibly hard time. We are so sorry. I hope we as an industry, and those closest to you, wrap their arms so tightly around you all.”
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A service to celebrate his life will take place at St Bartholomew’s Church, Barbon on Wednesday, September 17 at 12.30pm. As per his wishes, anyone attending the funeral is asked not to wear black, and instead to go wearing clothes they feel comfortable in or to ‘dress as though you are attending a country show’.
Vicar of St Bartholomew’s Church in Barbon Wendy Thornton encouraged people to come together at the church in remembrance and to light a candle for William.
A book of condolence was placed at St Mary’s in Kirkby Lonsdale as well as Barbon Church which will be open until 9pm for the foreseeable future.
William’s local community have raised £2,665 for Papyrus so far. Donations can be made via the fundraising page, left at the service or sent to JJ Martin Funeral Directors in Kirkby Lonsdale.
