Teacher with ‘gentle soul’ found dead at Eastbourne cliffs

Jonathan Finlay’s family said they were ‘heartbroken’ at an inquest into his death on Thursday (August 13).

The 39-year-old, from Gloucester, worked as a private English tutor in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for around 20 years.

He was a keen photographer, spoke two languages, and was much-loved, the inquest at Eastbourne Town Hall heard.

A statement from his sister, Michaela Rance, said, “He was a clever, artistic and likeable boy with a gentle soul.

“As a family we’re heartbroken but even more confused at why Jon would do this.

“I was never concerned he was suicidal or had any mental health problems.

“We cannot even begin to express our feelings of grief. He was loved by many.

“We will never forget you and you will be loved for a very long time.”

The inquest heard Jonathan had returned to the UK due to his Brazilian visa running out.

He had been deeply affected by his mother’s death in 2018, his sister said, as they were very close.

A statement from his father Caroline Paige, who has transitioned, said Jonathan struggled with anxiety and had become addicted to sleeping pills.

The statement said, “The night before his death was the lockdown announcement – it may have prompted him to finalise his decision.

“Something snapped and he just did it without thinking.”

Jonathan was seen to jump from the cliffs at Beachy Head by a member of the public on March 24 this year.

Coroner Alan Craze reached a conclusion of suicide and expressed his condolences to the family.

• If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, the Samaritans may be able to help – the charity’s helpline number is 116 123.

• You can also visit the website samaritans.org