Peter Brown’s funeral will now be held at the end of May in a 600 seat venue in Westminster, the council has announced.
Well wishers will be able to pay their respects to the former RAF veteran at a service on May 25 held at the St Clement Danes, the RAF Central Church.
The flight sergeant died aged 96 at his home in Maida Vale last December without any known family members. His send off was due to take place at Mortlake Crematorium two weeks ago but the event was postponed while the council looked for a larger location closer to home following a larger than expected public response.
The funeral at St Clements Dane on the Strand will be open to the public, with priority access to the 600-seat venue being given to those with a ‘connection’ to Mr Brown.
Council Leader Adam Hug said: “The national response to Mr Brown’s story has been overwhelming. The details of his life and subsequent search for relatives have truly captured the public imagination and moved people around the world.
“Our priority has always been to ensure Mr Brown receives a fitting, dignified send-off which allows those wishing to pay their respects, the opportunity to do so.
“We are grateful to the RAF who have stepped in and provided a perfect venue to reflect Peter’s military service. We will continue to work with the RAF, community groups and well wishers to ensure the service represents the many aspects of Mr Brown’s life.”
Mr Brown was one of the last known ‘Pilots of the Caribbean”. He came to the UK from Jamaica during the Second World War, when he flew in Lancaster Bombers. Following the war he served in a number of civilian roles including on the now defunct London County Council.
The service for Mr Brown will start at 11am, with his final farewell taking place at a private committal afterwards for personal friends and family.
A spokesperson for the RAF said: “Flight Sergeant Brown is an example of the selfless contribution of all Commonwealth personnel who have served throughout the RAF’s history. We should never forget their sacrifices which have defended our freedom and kept us safe.”
Anyone wishing to attend the funeral should send their name and contact details to rsvp@westminster.co.uk, with those who knew Mr Brown urged to indicate this in their email.
Main image: Westminster Council.