A beloved father known for his remarkable parenting skills and towering presence tragically passed away while vacationing in Spain. Jeremy Paynter, a former UK powerlifting champion from Seabrook near Hythe, was in Alcudia, Mallorca, on June 28.
During an initial hearing at Oakwood House in Maidstone, it was disclosed that the 45-year-old was involved in a jet ski incident with his partner, Emily Hill. The jet ski overturned while stationary, leading to the couple falling into the water despite wearing life jackets. Although Paynter managed to push his partner back onto the jet ski, he struggled to get back on himself.
Following the accident, emergency services were called, and Paynter, a senior finance manager originally from New Zealand, was pulled onto nearby rocks. Despite the efforts made, he could not be revived. A post-mortem examination conducted in Spain determined asphyxia as the cause of his death.
Paynter, survived by his seven-year-old daughter, was praised by friends, family, and former colleagues for his loving nature and generosity. His ex-wife, Cathrine Spencer, a former England rugby player, expressed her admiration for him in a heartfelt LinkedIn tribute.
Tributes have poured in from various individuals who knew Paynter both personally and professionally. Colleague Kenneth Louis Juan described him as a constant source of support and encouragement, emphasizing his caring leadership and impact on those around him.
Others lauded Paynter as an “honest giant of a man” with immense knowledge, empathy, and compassion. The inquest has been adjourned for a future full hearing to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
