The family of a Mullion man who was thought to be one of the last surviving Paratroopers from WWII have paid tribute to their ‘true hero’.

Herbert ‘Herbie’ Samuel Bray passed away on Tuesday, October 17 at The Downes Care Home in Hayle aged 97 years old.

Herbie was born in Mullion in 1926 and joined the war in 1944 at the age of 18. He served at the Rhine Crossing and then in Palestine as a Paratrooper. His brother also served in the war for the airborne forces but sadly died on the battlefield.

Falmouth Packet: Herbie was described as a 'true hero' by his family Herbie was described as a 'true hero' by his family (Image: Jordan Jane)Following his war service, Herbie returned to his hometown of Mullion where he lived for 94 years before moving into the care home in Hayle.

The former builder and Mullion Football Club Captain was a father to Angela, grandfather to Jordan and Ben and great-grandfather of Florence and Herbie – named after his great-grandfather.

Falmouth Packet: Herbie (centre) during his days as a Paratrooper Herbie (centre) during his days as a Paratrooper (Image: Family picture)Jordan Jane, Herbie’s Grandson told the Packet: “Herbie was a true hero to both me and my brother Ben.

“He was also a fantastic great-grandfather to my kids, and I know a great dad to my mum.

“He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all.”

Herbie's great-niece, Kylie Orcheston also paid tribute to her 'Uncle Herb'. She said: "He was a modest, kind and family-orientated man and he will be missed dearly." 

Falmouth Packet: Herbie with his sister June Withall née BrayHerbie with his sister June Withall née Bray (Image: Kylie Orcheston)Herbie’s funeral service will take place at Mullion Parish Church on Tuesday, November 7 at 11am, followed by a private cremation.

However, more information regarding a military procession through Mullion before the service has been shared by Herbie’s family on Facebook. It reads: “We would like to invite all to come to Herbie’s funeral on November 7.

“Granddad was thought to be one of the last surviving Paratroopers from WWII so if you are military or ex-military, we ask that you may wear your uniform in honour of a life served to the country.

“There will be a military procession through Mullion village led by a bagpiper.

“All are welcome to both the procession and the funeral.”

Herbie’s family have requested only family flowers at the service, however as he was president of the Royal Cornwall Parachute Regimental Association, donations are welcomed for Support Our Paras by either a retiring collection or sent to the funeral directors.

For details of Herbie’s funeral, or to donate to Support Our Paras, visit www.retonkin.co.uk