The town of Faversham in Kent is united in grief following the heartbreaking loss of a cherished local beauty queen, who died at the age of 21 in what has been described as a 'tragic accident'. Eleisha Skinner, who held the title of Miss Faversham 2022, passed away on January 8, 2026, leaving a community in mourning and a family devastated.
A Beloved Ambassador Remembered
In a poignant statement released today, the Faversham Carnival Club expressed their profound sorrow, confirming the untimely death of Eleisha Skinner. The club highlighted her role as a 'fantastic ambassador for Faversham' and remembered her as a 'truly lovely girl' whose presence was marked by an 'infectious smile'. They shared that Eleisha will be deeply missed by all who knew her, with many fond memories cherished from their time together.
Details of the Incident and Fundraiser
While specific details surrounding the tragic accident have not been disclosed to the public, the family has initiated a heartfelt fundraiser in Eleisha's honour. A GoFundMe page has been established to support the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, a service that covers Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire. The family expressed gratitude for the 'amazing response of the emergency services', which allowed them to spend Eleisha's final days with her.
So far, the campaign has garnered significant support, raising nearly £2,000 through dozens of donations. This effort underscores the impact Eleisha had on her community and the desire to honour her memory by aiding a critical service that played a role in her care.
Outpouring of Tributes and Condolences
An overwhelming wave of tributes has flooded social media and online platforms, with friends and acquaintances sharing their memories of Eleisha. Caroline Kyaba recalled her as a 'beautiful soul' who always spoke lovingly of her family, including proudly sharing photos of her brother's army graduation. Chanelle Lawrence added, 'It's always the best that get taken too soon,' noting that Eleisha was 'the heart of carnival' and expressing eternal gratitude for their shared moments.
The Faversham Carnival Club extended their deepest sympathies, stating, 'Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this devastating time.' This sentiment has been echoed widely, reflecting the deep connection Eleisha fostered within her community.
Celebration of Life Arrangements
A celebration of Eleisha's life is scheduled to take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 2.30pm. The service will be held at St Mary of Charity Church in Faversham, followed by a wake at Judd's Folly in the same town. This gathering will provide an opportunity for loved ones to come together, share stories, and pay their respects to a young woman whose light was extinguished far too soon.
As Faversham continues to grapple with this loss, the legacy of Eleisha Skinner as a vibrant and beloved figure remains a source of both sorrow and inspiration. Her memory lives on through the tributes, the fundraiser, and the indelible mark she left on those around her.
