'Princess' Funeral Planned for Birmingham Bus Stop Stabbing Victim Katie Fox
The mother of Katie Fox, who was tragically stabbed to death at a bus stop in Birmingham city centre, is determined to give her daughter a funeral fit for a princess. Katie, aged 34, lost her life on November 7 last year on Smallbrook Queensway, and her family now prepares to say their final goodbyes in a deeply personal ceremony.
A Heartfelt Tribute to a Beloved Daughter
Maria Fox, Katie's 63-year-old mother, has organised a funeral that reflects her daughter's vibrant spirit. The service will take place at Buckfast Abbey in Devon at 2pm on Monday, March 2. Katie will be carried in a bright pink coffin inside a white horse-drawn carriage, with the horses dressed as unicorns—a touching nod to Katie's princess-like nature.
"Katie was a bit like a princess," Maria explained. "So we're having white horses and her coffin will be bright pink, inside a white carriage. I want to give her the ending she deserves."
Musical and Symbolic Tributes
During the church service, a special song titled 'A Bird in Flight,' written by Maria's best friend Ellen Underwood in memory of Katie, will be played. Additionally, Maria has honoured her daughter by getting the same cat tattoo that Katie had inked onto her own hand. At the graveside, doves will be released as a symbol of peace and remembrance.
Maria expressed her desire for the public to know that Katie will never be forgotten. "I want people to know that Katie is being laid to rest," she said. "I want to show the public that Katie will never be forgotten."
A Final Resting Place in Devon
Katie's final resting place will be in Devon, a location cherished by the family. Maria plans to move there to be near her daughter. "Devon is somewhere we've always loved as a family," Maria shared. "Katie was going to move down there with us. That was her special place. When we've left Birmingham, I'll be near her, and can visit her whenever we want to."
Community Support and Memorial Services
Maria has extended an invitation to anyone wishing to attend the funeral, acknowledging the support from the community. Donations through a GoFundMe page have helped cover funeral costs, and Maria hopes contributors can see how their money is being used. For those unable to travel to Devon, a memorial service will be held on May 1 at Bournville Parish Church in Birmingham.
The tragic incident has left a lasting impact on Maria, who now avoids Birmingham city centre. "I can't go into town anymore," she admitted. "It has turned our lives upside down. It changed everything."
Legal Proceedings Continue
In related news, Djeison Rafael, 21, of Rosedale Avenue in Smethwick, has been charged with Katie's murder. He also faces charges for two counts of causing actual bodily harm on October 27 and November 7, possession of a Stanley blade, and assaulting a detention escort officer. His trial is scheduled to begin on May 5.
As the community mourns, Katie Fox's memory lives on through the heartfelt tributes and the upcoming services that aim to celebrate her life in a manner befitting the princess she was to her loved ones.
