Family Remembers Inspirational Son William France, 28, After Cancer Battle

The family of William France, a 28-year-old who bravely battled cancer for nearly half his life, is mourning the loss of their beloved son. He passed away peacefully at home in Canterbury earlier this month, just two weeks before Christmas, with his parents by his side. Described as “beautiful, kind, and loving,” William’s journey through life was marked by resilience and a passion for film.

William was diagnosed with paraganglioma, a rare tumour that typically forms along major blood vessels and nerve pathways, while he was in Year 10 at the autism unit at The Abbey School in Faversham. For the next 13 years, he faced numerous treatments, including extensive care and surgeries. Despite the challenges, he remained determined to live a full life, refusing to be defined by his illnesses.

His mother, Debbie France, shared with KentOnline that her son maintained a positive outlook, rarely displaying frustration despite his circumstances. “He was always lovely. He dealt with anything that was given to him with good humour,” she said. His father, Simon France, echoed this sentiment, noting William’s stoic approach to his health struggles.

While the cancer was deemed treatable, an operation to remove the tumour did not succeed, and a genetic mutation was later identified as the underlying cause of his cancer, which had spread to his pelvis. During his GCSEs and A-Levels, William studied in a lead-lined room in London, where his family often waited for radiation levels in his body to decrease.

The impact of William’s diagnosis extended beyond him; it prompted health screenings for his family. Simon discovered that he had cancer in both his bladder and liver, while doctors also found a tumour in William’s sister, Jessica France. Simon remarked, “Had Will not been diagnosed, I don’t think they’d ever have found ours.”

Since announcing William’s passing on social media, Debbie and Simon have been overwhelmed by the flood of messages from the community William built around his love for film. “We were quite taken aback,” Debbie said, highlighting the significance of the heartfelt responses they received. “That does mean something. I think that’s something really special.”

William’s family expressed their profound grief in a social media post, stating, “He was a beautiful, kind, loving, polite son and brother. To say that we will miss him is a massive understatement; he had a beautiful, kind soul, with a wicked sense of humour.” They emphasized his positivity and zest for life, noting how he embraced every opportunity.

His academic journey included studying film, radio, and television at Canterbury Christ Church University, culminating in a master’s degree focused on the impact of contemporary technology on film-related activities in Britain. William was deeply involved in the film community, serving as the first photographer for the Folkestone Film Festival Gala and volunteering as a film reviewer for the city’s student radio station. He also supported the Canterbury University Film Festival and the BFI Future Film Festival, showcasing his commitment to his passion.

In addition to his love for film, William was an avid fan of Formula One and a season ticket holder for the Harlequins, attending matches across the UK. A memorable moment for him was meeting his hero, Joe Marler, after a match at Clacket Lane services, which left him excited. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, he attended the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and even had the unique experience of sitting in Nico Rosberg’s car in Monaco.

William France is survived by his mother, Debbie, father, Simon, and sister, Jessica. His legacy of kindness, resilience, and passion for life will continue to inspire those who knew him.