A GRIEVING family have paid tribute to a football-mad Christian who collapsed and died suddenly at his parents’ home.

Mark Versey, 38, fulfilled his life’s dreams – working in sport with youngsters, living his faith and travelling the world.

His family and friends have been left stunned after he suddenly died at his parents’ home in Dawson Drive, Trimley St Mary, on February 25, believed to be from an enlarged heart and blocked artery.

Mr Versey gave up a banking career, feeling called by God to join a Christian mission project that would take him on an incredible journey, touching people’s lives across the globe.

He was a fit man and as well as coaching youngsters, played football, cricket and squash.

Since Mr Versey’s death his father Bob, 68, who worked at Felixstowe port for more than 30 years, and mother Jean, 67, who worked at the town’s main post office for 16 years, both Salvationists, have been overwhelmed with messages of support and sympathy, cards and emails, from all over the world.

“God gave him the skill of football and the skill of music and he used both of them,” Mrs Versey said.

“We had no other idea he had touched so many lives with his influence, and made so many friends. He used his redundancy money to train – it was a big step and he followed where God led him.

“Over the years, a lot of people have supported him on his faith mission and it was only recently he took a salaried position.

“He was very happy with life and never complained, and was very much a family man and he loved his nephews.

“He was very caring and would always help people in need, and had a very strong faith.

“He always had a strong desire to work with young people and he fulfilled his life’s ambition by working with football and youngsters.”

She added: “He did more, travelled more and achieved so much more in his life than many other people are likely to do and lived that full life right up until the end.”

Mr Versey said: “He liked a good laugh and was very fun-loving, and also a practical joker. He was everyone’s friend.”