Labour mourns the loss of John Prescott, a legendary political figure

In the United Kingdom, John Prescott, the former deputy prime minister, passed away on November 20, 2024, at the age of 86 after living with Alzheimer's disease. His funeral took place at Hull Minster, where over 300 family members, friends, and political colleagues gathered to pay their respects. Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party, praised Prescott’s contributions to the working class and considered him to be a 'true giant' of the Labour movement. Notable figures from the Labour Party, including former prime ministers Sir Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, also attended the service, highlighting Prescott’s legacy in British politics. Prescott served as deputy prime minister from 1997 to 2007 under Tony Blair, playing a pivotal role in public service for decades. Known for his fierce advocacy for social justice and environmental protection, he stood out as a prominent figure in the Labour Party's history and was awarded a peerage in 2010. His work included notable initiatives such as early action on climate change and advocacy for the minimum wage. In addition, he was remembered for his candid personality and connection with the public, which was exemplified by his infamous 'Prescott Punch' incident involving an egg-thrower during a campaign. The service to commemorate Prescott was nostalgic, and numerous stories were shared by attendees reflecting on his charismatic character and contributions to the party. Sir Tony and Gordon Brown shared anecdotes of their time with Prescott, emphasizing his loyalty and commitment to the working class. The funeral was deemed one of the most significant gatherings in Labour history since the death of John Smith in 1994, bringing together many key players in the party leadership. Prescott was also recognized for his passion for Hull, the city he represented for four decades, which remains an important part of his legacy. In a touching tribute, Prescott's family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during their time of grief. They aimed for the gathering to be a celebration of Prescott's life rather than merely a mourning of his passing. Donations in lieu of flowers were encouraged to support Alzheimer’s Research UK, further reflecting Prescott's values and commitment to public welfare even in death.