Like Mrs Brokenshire, I lost my husband to lung cancer. Like James, he was a non-smoker and 53. He had the same symptoms; a persistent cough and breathlessness, but the diagnosis took 3 months. He was finally diagnosed on 26th November 2001, and died 3 weeks later, on 21st December 2001. That was over 20 years ago, but I still remember those weeks so vividly. He was the love of my life, and no-one has ever replaced him. I happened to read an article about Cathy and James in the Sunday Telegraph, which triggered me to post this. My very sincere condolences to the Brokenshire family.

Please please doctors cant tell truth radon gas causes lung cancer my friend my suffering from lung cancer she has lived Norway and Cornwall , Aberdeen on Scotland cases has many lung cancer when the doctors listen to me

I know exactly as a family what you are going through ,as my Dad died of this terrible disease over 20years ago,aged 60..My thoughts are with you all . I do hope your campaign for national screening for lung cancer comes in ,as I myself have said it for a long time. So very sorry for your loss xxxx

I met James to discuss a matter that was very important to me and James genuinely listened and took interest in my concerns. I truly believe he made a difference as my issue was resolved. I will be forever grateful to James for his help and understanding. A friendly, polite man who should still be with us but will never be forgotten. Thank you James x

His diagnosis ( that I remember reading on Twitter) was the reason that I gave up smoking. I am forever thankful.

I am not connected to James in anyway, however, his cancer journey struck a very familiar chord with me. He was a similar age to, and initially diagnosed at a similar time as my father was (albeit a different type of cancer), before it returned during the pandemic. They both passed away on the same day. He appeared to be a genuine and humble person which is rare, especially in politics these days. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Tom

What a lovely man I didn't know him but may he rest in peace God bless you James x

Grief is the price we pay for love. It’s wonderful to see that so many people loved James and want to contribute in his memory. Sending love to Cathy and all who loved James. X

A good and honest man. Very few of them left, but he was indeed one of them.

An honourable man, highly regarded on both sides of the House and by all who encountered him. May he rest in peace & rise in glory. Eternal rest grant unto him & let perpetual light shine upon him. Those beloved of the gods die young but sincere condolences to his whole family.

I didn’t know James but when I saw him on TV he always came across as a thoroughly decent person. I’m from N.Ireland and I know he would have done his absolute best for the people there. I’m so very sorry for your loss.

I met James several times, the first as a very junior civil servant. I was enormously nervous beforehand but his warmth and kind smile immediately put me at ease. I ended up looking forward to each meeting with James. It broke my heart to hear of his early departure and I send all my love to his family and friends.

Thinking about family and friends

I first met James at the Hustings in 2010. Since then I have met him on numerous occasions. He was a personable, friendly and genuine person. He always listened and addressed any issues raised. He will be sorely missed on a personal and professional level. Derek W

On behalf of everyone at Cancer Research UK, we were so sorry to hear of James’ death. He was a great champion of our work and we were delighted to meet with him several times, including welcoming him to The Francis Crick Institute to hear about our TRACERx research programme – a study we hope will transform our understanding of non-small cell lung cancer and take a practical step towards an era of precision medicine. James was hugely passionate about the importance of early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer – something we, at Cancer Research UK, will continue to push. Our thoughts are with James’ friends and family at this time. He will be greatly missed. Michelle Mitchell, CEO and Professor Charles Swanton, Chief Clinician, Cancer Research UK

I live in Bexley and fought to save the life of my loved one when the authorities kept mis-diagnosing a chronic and debilitating mental health disorder. James Brokenshire supported us for close to a year, advocating in writing on our behalf. His support was unwavering and he engaged with our cause willingly and provoked the NHS to take action when it was most necessary. I'm not sure whether my loved one would be alive without his aid. In memory of The Right Honorable James Brokenshire MP, I will write an article eventually, when the matters at hand are handed over to the judiciary systems, making clear this mans role. He supported the exposing of chronic and institutionalised failures. Although the NHS works for some of us, there are times when the individuals who make up the system need to be held accountable, and James Brokenshire certainly aided in that act of support, even whilst ill, which to our family makes him the hero we called on in our time of need. We are eternally grateful and wish James peace now. We send our sympathies to the family too.

I had the privilege of working with James over the last couple of years. It was clear why he was so loved by many civil servants. Considerate, respectful and across the detail of his brief. Even when he demanded more he did so politely and without failing to express his gratitude. A man that motivated you to give your all. A huge loss to us all and I will miss working with him.

I'm extremely saddened by the loss of a truly remarkable colleague, who worked relentlessly in his duties. My thoughts and prayers are with all of James' family, friends, colleagues, and anyone else that knew him. I wish you all comfort and peace in the weeks, months, and years ahead. I am fortunate to have had the privilege of working with James, and we will all miss his kindly presence. Ian Levy MP

James Brokenshire was that rarest of gems in politics; a genuinely kind man. We may have had different views but public life will be the poorer without his soft-spoken example of disagreeing well. - Shami Chakrabarti

James was a lovely man who showed great respect for all his colleagues. We are so sad about his untimely passing and send our love and thoughts to you as a family. Hilary Benn

Thinking of you all today x

Touched by the tributes paid to James in the House of Commons today. He was clearly one of the good guys and loved by all who knew him. Having lost a close friend recently at the age of 45 in very similar circumstances, these tributes were especially poignant. Sending our love and best wishes to his family and friends xx

Once worked up the courage to speak to him in Parliament . He was extremely kind to take the time to talk with me and treated me as an equal. Even from that small interaction it left a lasting impression on me. If ever I heard people talk about him it was always with the highest regard and warmth. I pray that he is at peace now and that his family know just how loved he was.

On behalf of all at Irish Community Services we are so sorry to hear of James' passing. He was a kind, generous and thoughtful supporter of our work and of our community. We have so many wonderful stories of times when he has visited our lunch clubs and groups and even lent a hand with dishes and dinners. He was always positive, warm and welcoming no matter the day and will be fondly remember by all at Irish Community Services. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. x

James was a true parliamentarian and a colleague even to us who sat across the aisle.

I worked with James Brokenshire when he was a Home Office Minister and he was intelligent, kind and patient. He took tremendous care over decisions and treated everyone around him with care, respect and thoughtfulness. I was very sad to hear the news and for those who had the privilege to work closely with him - he will remain one of the finest examples of a politician who truly did step up to his responsibilities, as well as being genuinely someone to enjoy working with, Sarah

James was one of life's true gentleman. I knew James for over 30 years and in all that time I never recall him saying a single unkind word. In fact he was unfailing polite, kind and diligent in everything that he did - something that I know engendered respect in all who he encountered. Andrew Griffith MP

I attended Davenant School at the same time as James. He was a year ahead of me & I remember him clearly, though I didn't know him well. I followed his political career with interest & was so pleased to see him entering the higher ranks of government. He always came across as a thoroughly decent man & I'll always be proud to tell people I was at school with him. My deepest condolences to his friends & family.

I first met James when he attended a hustings meeting run by Churches Together in Sidcup (CTiS) at New Community Church. He was warm and engaging, and over the subsequent years as our local MP has consistently shown support for our local community including churches and other faith groups, Queen Mary's Hospital, the need for a Post Office, and travel to London. He listened to people and helped local residents to overcome red tape when the odds seemed stacked against them. He has been a superb local MP and hardworking minister, yet always had time for individuals and treated people with gentleness and respect. It is testament to his character that he was not only respected, but LOVED for who he was.

As a Civil Servant in the Home Office it may seem a bit strange to some people just how upsetting it was when the announcement came that 'JB' was ill and how devastating it was to hear of his passing but I think that is a sign of just how well respected and liked he was. Whenever there was a hint of a reshuffle many of us would say how we would love the new Home Secretary to be JB and I'm so saddened that I will never serve under his leadership like when he was Immigration Minister. On a more personal level my eldest son was in the same class as Cathy and James' youngest daughter so it was always lovely to see them both at school events at times when I knew just how busy he was because of an issue that was bubbling in the department. This is something that stayed with me because it showed if a Government Minister was able to leave the office for sports day or art display then so could I and is a message I make sure to share with my staff. To all of James' family and loved ones, my heart aches for the you as I can not imagine the pain you are going through. Please take comfort in the knowledge of how much James has touched the lives of so many and you have the love and best wishes of an army of people. RIP James Brokenshire - a thoroughly decent human being!

The Trustees of Bexley Winter Shelter express our condolences to the family of James Brokenshire. He was a good man and always had the best interests of his family, party, the country and his constituents in mind. He made an impact wherever he went and will be missed. His support for and work on behalf of Bexley Winter Shelter was greatly appreciated and that legacy alone will live on. God’s blessing to his family. Charlie

There is a profound sense of loss among so many of us following the death of our friend James Brokenshire. He was an excellent Member of Parliament characterised by his courtesy, intelligence and loyalty. He will be a sad loss to his constituents who have become used to his tireless efforts on their behalf in Parliament and elsewhere. I will always remember the night we spent in Washington drinking Scotch late into the night and being mercilessly bitten by mosquitoes as we sorted out the country's political problems! He was relentlessly optimistic about his illness and I know that of all those who will miss him, it will be the family that he so obviously loved so much. All of us were enriched by knowing James and can count ourselves lucky for having had him as a friend. We send his family all our love and prayers.

I'm a Home Office civil servant who witnessed many colleagues over the years stating such as, "I hope it's JB", "Great it's going to be Brokenshire!" because his mixture of intellect, ability and kindness was legendary. His passing is such a waste but he really made his mark as well.

I will always remember our former Secretary of State as a thoughtful, kind and dedicated man who was a pleasure to work for.

I shadowed James as Northern Ireland Secretary for a year or so and got to know him a little and respect him greatly. He was an excellent, understated but highly effective minister, who took his responsibilities to the peace and people of NI with great care and seriousness. He was unfailingly caring, courteous and charming and, rare among politicians, was both liked and respected across all political divides. He could and would have achieved much more had he been given more time. My deepest condolences to all of his family and friends. RIP James. Owen Smith

Gareth and I separately met James when we campaigned for him in Hornchurch. We still describe locations with reference to the flat! Over the course of housewarmings, stag dos and weddings, we had the pleasure of getting to know both James and Cathy better. Not forgetting the time one of the children got both of us addicted to Plants vs Zombies on the iPhone! We will miss seeing James and the big smile on his face as he was always so pleased to see you.

James was highly regarded by colleagues and seen as a safe pair of hands who always had time to talk to every colleague about the latest issue in their inbox. I particularly remember working with him on Grenfell when he was absolutely assiduous in leading the ministerial group as SoS, painstakingly making sure every issue was covered considerately and competently. He was an excellent Minister and will be much missed.

You blessed and encouraged us so much by visiting Lark in the Park - New Generation Church - Hope Community School and Blackfen Library. Your wisdom insight and laughter always spurred us on. James thanks for your inspiration……..

From Steve Kavanagh - Millwall FC James and i corresponded a few years ago regarding issue at The Den as whilst he was Old Bexley he helped me. He was also previously MP out in Essex where i live. Very sad news and i would be grateful if mine and Millwalls condolences could get to his family as he was a good man. Thanks Steve Millwall Football Club,

You’ll be greatly missed, James. When we play our family games at Xmas, we will always be thinking of you. Sending lots of love Jane xx

You’ll be greatly missed, James. When we play our family games at Xmas, we will always be thinking of you. Sending lots of love Jane xx

I met James several times, once when he was out and about campaigning, and a few other times when he visited the Bexley Business Club. I once had the pleasure of sitting next to him at a Club dinner. He was great company, and everything you would want a politician to be. Such a terrible loss, and my thoughts are with his family.

James Brokenshire was my friend and I shall miss him. I have hesitated to post anything as it is difficult to know quite how to capture on Facebook the essence of a man like James. Many others have managed to do so and one of the benefits of waiting has been the opportunity to read of the genuine grief and sense of loss from friends, colleagues of all political hues and those whose life he touched through his Parliamentary work. I cannot begin to imagine how truly ghastly this time must be for Cathy and their children but I do hope they can take comfort from this outpouring of love for James. He was a thoroughly decent man, a quality some may say is rare in politics, which is one of the reasons so many people have written of their sadness at his passing. Un-showy, diligent, effective and hard-working were all true of James; government and politics need more people like him. He leaves a legacy of achievement, the greatest of which is his family. James we loved you and will miss you.

I had the privilege to welcome James Brokenshire to the Home Office when he became a Minister in 2010. He was warmly regarded by all the civil servants who worked with him as hard-working, incisive and tenacious. Above all he was thoroughly kind and decent, making time for people regardless of rank or status. Two specific memories spring to mind. When James visited the immigration offices in Glasgow we happened to bump into one of the office cleaners. Where other Ministers might have swept by, James took the trouble to stop and introduce himself and to thank her for everything she did. As you can imagine this made a huge impression on her and in fact it was the only time I saw her lost for words! On another occasion I was in the Home Office HQ with a civil servant colleague who was visiting the main office for the first time. Again we bumped into Minister Brokenshire who took the trouble to stop and chat. That colleague texted me on Friday when news of his death became public to say that she would never forget his kindness in taking the time to chat to her 'even though he must have had a million and one other things to do'. These are just a couple of small examples of how James made a positive impact on others - to add to the numerous examples and tributes I have read elsewhere. My sincere condolences to James' family and friends. Gillian

James will be so missed- always so lovely, happy, and had time for everyone. His mother was my late Grandmother's sister, so we grew up loving James to bits. Cathy and James were the first family members to visit my baby daughter after she was born. A truly special couple. Myself and Daisy send so much love to Cathy, Sophie, Jemma and Ben. Love, Emma and Daisy xx

I have known James for many years through his closest childhood friend. It was one of those friendships where meet ups are by parties and milestones in your mutual friends lives. So I continued to see he and Cathy and then the children through all of our lives. He was one of those people who was constant, never changing, always friendly and engaging. We talked about losses we'd experienced over the years but I never thought I'd be talking about his loss so prematurely. He like me was a lawyer and one memory I do have of him is when I was at Bar school, so about 27 years ago, I was really struggling with an assignment and I called him, knowing he would be the right person to ask, so thoughtful and analytical. He was at work, but was generous enough to help and advise me. He always seemed to make time for everyone. Dear Cathy, he is an inspiration, as are you with all you have dealt with during his illness. ❤ much love Nyree xx

Over the years, I had met James and Cathy at many Receptions and Party functions. But, it was after James's diagnosis of lung cancer, that I came to actually know him. He reached out to the lung cancer community, offering his help. He spent many hours with me and colleagues, giving valuable advice, guidance and support -for which we are truly grateful. He wanted to ensure the future was better, for those diagnosed with this devastating disease. This Tribute and the awareness it is raising, is ensuring that continues. He was passionate, in particular, about earlier diagnosis. The campaign continues. And, when a Lung Cancer Screening Program is eventually approved here, in the UK, I will certainly raise a glass to you, James! Reading the Tributes left in these Pages, he has touched so many lives, across so many communities. He faced this illness with such courage. His love of family, kindness and compassion for others was always evident. His passing is so horribly unfair. I send my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Cathy and the family. Jesme.

Such lovely memories of times spent with James over the years. Delivering leaflets for his campaign in Hornchurch, celebrating his well deserved successes with his beloved Cathy and his family as it grew. Attending Fundraising dinners, which were enhanced for me when he was the guest speaker as he was so informative and entertaining. Watching the marathon in Limehouse with breakfast butties and a glass of champagne whilst handing out sweeties to the runners. Informal Christmas Eve lunches with Simon & I and a handful of friends before James and the family attended various carol services. Then all meeting up again for the midnight service at St Andrews. These and so many more memories of a very unique and special person who I was very fortunate to call a friend. James, I really can’t believe that you have been taken so young. I send my condolences and prayers to Cathy and the children at this very sad time.

As a civil servant, I worked closely with JB last year particularly around COVID. He was always so kind in dealings with the most senior or the most junior colleagues, always listened and clearly cared deeply about the work he was doing. Even recently, I was in contact with him, and he remembered what I had moved onto, and asked after me and my family, despite all that he was dealing with. He will be missed by so many people.

On behalf of holy trinity lamorbey I and everyone at Holy Trinity Lamorbey are bereft and cannot imagine what you’re going through. I hope you can take comfort from the fact I offered Mass for the repose of James’s soul before sunset on Friday, yesterday and this morning. Our flag is at half mast and we are observing the mourning normally reserved for the passing of a senior royal - because James and you are so special. Anything I can do, please phone my mobile. Love, Mark

I had the pleasure of meeting James once when he came to visit the Coca Cola factory in Sidcup. We had a short conversation on the importance of providing facilities for local people. It struck me how much he knew about his local constituency, how much he cared and also how much he was prepared to do. I was left feeling positive about meeting a politician with ability and integrity. I felt his constituents were in capable hands. He was humble yet had great presence. A very memorable experience for me and such a tragic loss for many.

As a trainee at Gouldens (now Jones Day) I was lucky enough that James took me on as an informal mentee. His work ethic and attention to detail for his clients was second to none but he also took the time out of those long hours to really train me for which I was very grateful. I recall being invited to his house for Christmas drinks. I was a little apprehensive, not quite sure what to expect going to the house of a City law partner. In the end it was a lovely, low key relaxed event with just a handful of colleagues and family and friends. James and Cathy couldn’t have made me feel more welcome. We always knew his passion lay with politics (for all the good reasons) and his family and it’s been great to watch his career progress. So very sorry to hear the sad news, my thoughts are with his family, Madi

Good morning Catherine we are so sorry to hear the sad news about James. What can we say only that it was great meeting James at Janets birthday. He was really well thought of as a caring and a respected person, was popular with everyone that he met .You and the children and your mum and dad must be so proud of what has achieved in his life. Our thoughts are with you all. Michael and Pat.

I didn’t know James personally but have long admired his humanity, principles and his bravery. A gentleman for all his family to be very proud of. RIP James.

James was an ordinary man who made extraordinary contribution through his thorough and caring approach. He leaves a special legacy

I will never forget when we met at a night with MICHAEL GOVE MP at sidcup rugby club, you was so exited that you that day had the all clear of this terrible disease some 3 years ago. I was shocked to hear it had come back with a vengeance. Me and my wife thought so much of that night and to speak and shake hands with you. Our thoughts are with your family to lose such a nice husband and dad. Sleep well my friend and god bless you. DELL AND DOT ACOURT. XXX.

James was a great man who was always there for myself and others, I will miss him so much ,but we will be there for Cathy and family ,you will be in in our hearts for ever Love Estelle and Lee Scott

I only met James once, but I'd heard many, many stories beforehand - via Peter Cardwell - of his kindness, decency, humanity, intelligence and warmth. We all know how he spent his working life diligently dealing with weighty matters of state. However, the night I sat beside him in an Indian restaurant in Belfast, we discussed Victoria Wood, Acorn Antiques and Crossroads. He was terrific company. Engaging and engaged, and clearly just a thoroughly good man. At this terribly sad time, I send all my love to the family he clearly adored.

I only met James for a couple of hours when he came to find out more about a project I was leading. However, I was really struck by James; he was clearly very clever and knowledgeable and was able to provide very thoughtful insights and advise, however he was also warm and engaging and seemed genuinely interested. It was a privilege to meet him. His sad passing is a great loss. My thoughts go to his family and friends

I was elected in 2017 and had the opportunity to meet and raise issues with James, whilst he was at MHCLG. He was always very thoughtful, kind and helpful. I am amazed that he was diagnosed back then and yet still continued to be an active public servant. My thoughts are with his family a huge loss for them and for parliament. God bless 🙏

Such a kind man. A rare blend in a politician of being effective whilst thoughtful, compassionate & kind. All thoughts & condolences with your family and thank you James for your many years of service.

I did not know James Brokenshire very well at all, we were not friends on a personal level. But I have two abiding memories. 1. In 2018 I was the Bexley Local Government Agent which included his Old Bexley & Sidcup constituency. One of the first major campaign days was a week or so after he had left hospital. Clearly exhausted after major surgery and in pain, he turned up to thank people for coming and to apologise that he was not yet well enough to join in. 2. After his relapse I posted good wishes on Twitter along with 100s of others. Two days later I received a personal email thanking me for my kind words. But this wasn't a cut and paste reply, he recalled a joke from the first time we met and asked about the wellbeing of a mutual friend. In a world of sharp elbows and big egos, these randon acts of kindness are too rare and should be cherished. My thoughts are with Cathy and their children. May he rest in peace +

“Now that you are in the glory of the Lord, I know that you are very peaceful, because here on earth you always did good and you strived to be happy every day of your life, we hope to see you again, we will always remember you as a friend and beloved Member of Parliament in Bexley. God will comfort your family. May your soul rest in perfect peace. Tony and Liz Ajala

James was a lovely man. I got to know him a little bit as Chaplain to the Mayor of Bexley twice. He was genuinely interested in you as a person. Our country is poorer with his death. Revd Andrew White

I was with James at Exeter University where we both read Law and then entered Parliament with him as well. Throughout he was kind, diligent, fair minded, humble and servant hearted. He displayed those qualities at URE - University Radio Exeter when for example he interrogated the political activism of me, Robert Halfon, Sajid Javid and Tim Montgomerie. Also as an MP and Minister - I was most engaged with James in his time as Immigration Minister holding him to account in relation to policies such as immigration detention and refugees. Whilst there was much to provoke him, James handled the challenges with great patience, care and consideration whilst holding and defending the Government’s position robustly with great clarity and firmness of purpose. James has many ministerial achievements but I recall how he played a major part in supporting a fair and compassionate policy towards refugees and reforming immigration detention. Areas of policy which may not receive much attention or praise but which needed the compassion and attention to detail which James always displayed. James was a good supporter and faithful friend of the Conservative Christian Fellowship (CCF). Indeed faithfulness and friendship are the two words which for me sum up James personally and publicly, which is why he was much valued, and will be much missed and forever cherished. Be assured of my and CCF’s prayers for James’ family.

Politician, friend and family man. Or more precisely, family man, friend and politician. To all he will be reminded for being fair, considered and insightful. To those who were fortunate enough to have him as a dear friend will also remember James for his generosity. He would always be more interested in you that he was himself. Despite all his achievements, of which there were many his conversation always focussed on the person he was speaking to. When he asked you how you were, you knew he meant it with sincerity. He gave warmth to all those around him. We were fortunate to know James for 15 years. During that time, he became an MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, serving his constituents and country with diligence and respectfulness. No problem was too small. No problem was too big. His service in the Home Office saw him make difficult decisions. He was brave enough and clever enough to rid our country of those who threatened us. During the 2012 Olympics he spent every waking hour in a darkened room with the Security Services making sure we all stayed safe. As Secretary of State for Northern Ireland he engendered a sense of humanity across the divide, receiving warmth and compassion from both sides. It reminds one of the Sting song ‘The Russians Love Their Children Too’. Such feats show the true achievements of a great man from high politics to a gentle conversation between friends. He always made a difference. He leaves behind a legacy to be proud of. The biggest of which is his family. Because of James and his amazing marriage to Cathy his children possess care, intelligence and humour, in equal measures. James thank you for being a dear friend and thank you for making our world a better place. Adrian, Michelle, Annabel and Pips

He was my minister when he first joined the Home Office and I worked with him off and on over his years there. He was a joy to work for, thoughtful, considered, funny, intelligent and always willing to listen to, and appreciate, advice. More than any other minister, he always had time to say hello and have a quick chat, even when he moved to the other end of 2MS to be SoS DCLG. I have so many memories of dealing with him, but what stands out in all of them is his profound decency. One evening, as I was working late to meet a deadline his office had set (and thus missing several leaving drinks), he walked past my desk, asked why I was there so late, and on hearing why, told me to forget the deadline and go to the drinks - on the grounds that saying cheerio to my friends was more important than his deadline. It was a small, but important, gesture to me. He always said he saw ministers and civil servants as working together as a team and I for one was glad to be on his team. JB has been taken far too young and I feel such sadness for his family, but they should know that he was liked, admired and valued by so many that worked for him.

James, I will really really miss you. I will miss your wise counsel, your dedication to your constituents, your sharp brain, your sense of humour and your friendship. I will miss laughing with you, the occasional gossip and sharing thoughts about those causes that we both care about. Parliament is a lesser place without you. RIP and know that Cathy and your wonderful children are your greatest legacy. Karen and Neil

My name is Fr Gary Donegan a Passionist Priest based in Holy Cross Parish Ardoyne Belfast. Ardoyne Parish lost the largest number of victims during The Troubles and while James was SOS was directly involved with Peace initiatives including contentious parading. I had the pleasure of meeting him on a number of occasions including Stormont House and had a wonderful dinner one evening in Hillsborough Castle. That evening there was just about half a dozen of us and I got to see the James RIP his family and friends loved a lovely, kind and humble man. Thoughts and prayers on the loss of such a young man for his family I for one am a better person from knowing him May he Rest in Peace 🙏

I've known James all my adult life, since we were both in our late teens - he was my oldest friend. With busy lives, we've often gone for months without our paths crossing, but they always did, and whenever we got a chance to catch-up, it was like no time had passed. In many ways we grew up together, and he's been a constant in my life. We have lots of very happy, amazing and fun filled memories, which Dhiren & I will treasure. As these pages show, he was a rather special individual (though we all know he would have laughed and never accepted that for a moment) and we were all very lucky to have him in our lives. But this will make our loss even harder. We're so devastated for Cathy and the children, and are sending all our love and support to you all, now and forward into the future. I'm just so sad he won't be physically present in any of our lives any longer, but will always be here with us one way or another. Dhiren & Graeme xx

James was a fine man. Decent, a true public servant and so brave. He did what he thought was right for the country. If only there were more like him. It was an honour to have worked with him. My deepest condolences to his family for their terrible loss. Denzil Davidson

This terrible and evil disease has robbed his wife, family and friends of a truly honourable and decent guy. RIP James. John & Emily

I was so sorry to learn of James’ death. I was one of the partners who recruited James to Gouldens as a trainee solicitor; subsequently we worked together in the “world of waste” , which was quite esoteric at the time. Indeed although I have been retired for 7 years now, I received this afternoon an email from a client ( Nigel Sandy) for whom James and I used to do a lot of work together. I extract part of Nigel’s email: “ Dear Clare I was very sorry to read that James has died. I know he had been ill but I guess we thought being a youngish guy he would pull through. I liked James who I worked with on quite a few deals when I was Hanson. We are just about to leave for Turkey so I was going to ask that if you are in touch with his family pass on my condolences as well. Love Nigel” James achieved so much in politics and was so principled and straightforward ( unlike some of his fellow MPs) . We former fellow Gouldens (then Jones Day) partners followed his political career with great interest. I am sure he would have been devastated to have to give it up in order to keep battling against this b……dy disease. As a fellow cancer patient he and I exchanged emails over the years since he was diagnosed and I hope I was able to give him some support. Anyway I just wanted to drop you a brief message of sympathy and condolences at this difficult time. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. With every sympathy Clare Clare Deanesly

I’m so very sorry for your loss. I have a keen interest in politics and I’ve always admired James for his friendly, respectful and calm manner when dealing with everyone he encountered in politics. My thoughts to his family and friends, a well respected and dedicated public servant!

James was an incredible person and public servant. An alumnus that the University of Exeter can be proud of. Taken too soon from us and a man that proved nice guys can succeed in politics

I was so sad to hear the news that James Brokenshire has passed away at such a peak time in his and his family's life. I had the pleasure of meeting James on a couple of occasions and although he had already been ill, I was impressed by his professionalism, courtesy, warmth and friendliness - he was a very approachable young man who I am sure would have gone far in the crazy World of politics. Although I am a former resident of Sidcup and currently live in Bromley, I send my sincere and heartfelt condolences to his wife, Catherine and his family. Be assured dear lady you and your family are in the thoughts and hearts of many people, even though you may not have met them. God Bless you James - Heaven now has another Star! Sandra (H)

As a civil servant who worked with JB (as he was affectionately known) over the past 11 years this is such a huge loss to Government, politics and his family. He wasn’t the sort of minister who would just read advice and give a yes or no decision, he was thoughtful, he engaged with the issues, he was open to honest and frank conversation about the best way forward. These are the best qualities of a Minister and he was always excellent at the despatch box. On top of all of that he was a thoroughly lovely person - even when he disagreed with the advice received he was civil, measured and one of the politest people I’ve ever met. He will be missed

James was a friend, a wonderful, caring, friendly and kind family man. I will cherish the memories I have, from travelling to Northern Ireland with my family to stay with his, when he was the Secretary of State, to suppers chez Brokenshire with the children running wild when youngsters. James was always welcoming and had time for everyone, a great friend. He was a caring, doting father and a wonderful husband to Cathy. I can’t believe he has gone, a huge hole has been created. RIP our lovely friend. Susie Cleverly

James proved that nice guys can succeed in politics. Generous with his time and always positive, he got on by being helpful and kind to others. He was universally liked and respected because of this. He held some of the toughest ministerial positions in government and yet always remained cool, calm and collected. Yet throughout this he remained at heart a family man. He clearly adored his wife and children and was deeply committed to them. Time spent in his company was always effortless. I regarded him as my closest friend in politics, yet I realise that there are plenty of others who would say the same of him. Taken from us far too soon he will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. James Cleverly

It is rare to weep at the loss of a politician. Three stand out - John Smith, then Labour Leader, May 1994, Robin Cook, in Aug 1995 and Donald Dewar in October 2000. What made them stand out? For the most part, their integrity and their respect for the ordinary people. Thus it was that I was both saddened and shocked at the passing of The Rt Hon James Brokenshire at the age of 53. I never met him or any of the others, but his integrity shone like a beacon. The tributes from all sectors of politics attest to this fact. In a world where integrity has taken a Sabbatical, Mr Brokenshire shone like a beacon. Thank you for not taking the ordinary man and woman in the street for fools. I hope those currently serving on all sides will look on and learn. Sincere condolences to the Brokenshire family. His memory and his legacy will live on. To Mrs Brokenshire, may God grant you serenity, strength and peace. Praying for you all. Every blessing. Angella

I am a civil servant and worked closely with JB both as immigration and security minister in the Home Office. The universal level of love and respect people had for him was both genuine and rare. A truly lovely, kind man and a great minister.

One of the people who gives politics a good name. Polite, humble & grounded, despite all that he achieved. His children will grow up proud of him. Go well friend.

  As a Trust and school community, Odyssey,  Townley Grammar and King Henry school would like to express our deep sorrow at the passing of James Brokenshire MP.   As an MP, a parent at the school and a friend, James was the epitome of intelligence, good grace and kindness. We have been blessed by his presence and his absence will leave a hollow which was once filled with the very best of humanity. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time. May they find comfort in the legacy left by this remarkable soul. Desmond Deehan  

Amazing human! 👏 Even as a Secretary of State, he was so down to earth in the office and treated everyone with respect! God has taken an angel back to him 🙏

James was one of the first MPs I met when i joined the lobby in 2005. His warmth and genuine, caring nature shone through. He was one of the good guys and no one had a bad word to say about him. He will be truly missed. Sending love to Cathy and the children, RIP James, taken too soon. Anika xxx

So terribly sorry for your loss. James was one of the best men of politics across and within all parties and our public life has lost someone important.

He really seemed like a decent bloke who deeply cared about the public and the people he was elected to represent. From a non-conservative, the Consrvatives and parliament will miss him.

I'm Deeply and Utterly Heartbroken to Hear the News That James Brokenshire Has Died, He Was the Most Talented of Politicians and as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Played a Huge Part In Bringing the DUP and Sinn Fein Back Into the Executive, My Thoughts and Prayers Are with James's Family Including His Beloved Wife Cathy, RIP James

Hon James Brokenshire was a great supporter of the work by FGM Survivors and Campaigners in the U.K. during his time at the Home Office. Always was interested in what he could do to help. What a huge loss this is to the world and country. Thoughts with his wonderful family and loved ones. 💜 Alimatu Dimonekene Campaigner and survivor

Having worked in Parliament from 2018 to 2021, I crossed James a few times and he always appeared as a nice, principled man. I followed him before and during his therapy, praying he could recover. I'd wish to send my sympathy to his family and will pray more in his memory. Stefano Basilico

Thank you for all you did as an MP YOU were one off the good guys zaud it straightt but with kindness My thoughts are with all the faimily

Shall greatly miss you, had no idea you were gravely poorly. Such a gentle, gracious, brave, hardworking politician, my heart goes out to your immediate family, travel safely dear James 😔

I am a civil servant and just want his family to know how highly regarded and respected he was. He stood out. I met him almost 10 years ago as a constituency MP and then as Home Office Minister for security. He was sharp, smart and compassionate. My thoughts and best wishes are with his family. Michelle