Former “Voice UK” contestant Dean Franklin has died at age 36, just weeks after being diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer.
His mother confirmed his death in a touching social media post early Sunday morning.
“I never wanted to share this news with you all so soon,” wrote his mom, Marie. “As a family we are truly heartbroken to announce that our precious boy Dean Franklin who fought so courageously over 8 weeks and 3 days passed over at 21.39pm last night. He was surrounded by love.”
In a photo attached to the post, his loved ones can be seen holding Franklin’s hand as he lies in a hospital bed.
“I have been getting [messages] from people this morning and wanted as his ma to manifest my son’s courage to share with you all,” his mother continued. “As a family we will post in more length when we are able. Until then please know that the love you gave to our Dean and all of us has meant so very much.”
Franklin, who was coached by British vocal powerhouse Paloma Faith on season 5 of “The Voice UK,” first disclosed his terminal illness in mid-December, saying his team of doctors would quickly be starting an aggressive treatment plan.
He continued posting updates over the following weeks, but had grim news to share on Jan. 30.
“Over the last few weeks, my life has changed very fast,” he told his followers. “What started as esophageal cancer ended up spreading aggressively to my liver and weirdly, I had almost no symptoms from the esophagus itself.”
“Sometimes cancer doesn’t shout where it starts,” he explained. “Sometimes it whispers and shows itself somewhere else.”
According to his mother, Franklin will be laid to rest with a funeral on March 6 at The Park Crematorium in Plymouth, England.
“Anyone who knew him and would like to pay their respects is very welcome to attend,” she wrote Tuesday on Facebook. “Dean requested that everyone wear their best statement hat if you feel comfortable doing so. The funeral service will also be available via web link — this will be shared in due course.”
A separate celebration of life will be held in London at a later date, his mother added.
