A dad-of-five who died suddenly just a week short of his 40th birthday has been described as a “much-loved son, brother, father and friend”.

Lewis Leggatt, from Herne Bay, was found dead in his room earlier this month, heaping more heartache on his already grieving family.

He had been suffering ill health in recent months but the cause of his death is still to be determined through post-mortem tests.

His mum Pauline, brother Ashley and sister Casey say his loss has come as a complete shock and devastated his loved ones.

They continue to grieve for Lewis’s younger brother, Warren Leggatt, who took his own life in 2008, aged just 20.

“Lewis had not been well but we never dreamt we would lose him so it’s a huge shock,” said Pauline, 63.

“It was especially difficult to tell his kids, who he adored, and who have really been struggling with it.

“He was single and living in Maidstone at the time because he wanted to keep away from Herne Bay and try and make a fresh start.”

The family had been planning to take Lewis out for his birthday, but he was found in his room on the evening of October 3, seven days before.

“We are still waiting to find out what caused it,” Pauline said.

Lewis, a former pupil of Herne Bay High and East Kent College, had five children aged between eight and 18.

He was a roofer by trade but not working because he was suffering with a hernia and cellulitis.

“He had always kept himself fit and was an amateur boxer so it was getting him down and he did not want people to see him like it, “ said Ashley, 38, who trades in collectables.

The family say Lewis had suffered from anger management issues which had got him into trouble in the past.

They believe it stemmed from the tragedies he had to deal with, including losing Warren and then his dad, Nicky, at the age of just 49 in 2010.

The family’s grief was also further compounded in 2016 when their cousin, gas engineer and dad-of-two Luke Leggatt, tragically died aged 26.

“Lewis was prone to all sorts of frustrations and emotions but he was our big brother and very protective,” said Casey.

“I know he just wanted to get his life back on track and be a better person but his poor health was getting him down. He was living in shared accommodation but looking forward to getting his own flat.”

In July, Lewis posted on his Facebook page about the loss of his little brother, Warren, on the anniversary of what would have been his birthday.

“Happy thoughts on your heavenly birthday bro,” he wrote.

“We all miss and love you the world. Life will never be the same again and will one day be back together again. love ya always broski, rest in paradise.”

The family say funeral arrangements are still being made but the service is likely to be held at St Martin’s Church in Herne, with Lewis to be buried alongside his little brother.

Friends have now set up a GoFundMe page to help with the funeral costs.

They say: “Lewis is a much-loved son, brother, father and friend, who was well known and widely loved by so many.

“Those who knew Lewis will have many fond memories which I’m sure will include a lot of fun, laughter and almost certainly a little mischief!

“I know so many who will be feeling shocked and saddened by Lewis’ passing.

“We cannot begin to imagine the loss that his dear family are experiencing and like so many others, we find it hard to know what to say at a time like this.

“We know that no words can take away the pain.

“With this fundraising page, we’re hoping to raise some money for Lewis’ incredible mum and family to support them as they navigate their way through this difficult time, and take away some of the financial pressure so that they can take the time they need to grieve for Lewis.”