GRIEVING parents have paid tribute to their “lovely” and “funny” son, who died after contracting suspected pneumonia.

Gary Lovett, 20, became seriously ill days before Christmas and passed away on Boxing Day at Southampton General Hospital.

Only days earlier the popular shop worker and charity fundraiser had posted a message on his Facebook site saying he was looking forward to Christmas and New Year.

Gary, a former Mansbridge and Cantell schoolboy, lived at home with his mother Tracy and dad Rob in Lordswood.

Rob said: “He was very easygoing and always had lots of friends, I just can’t put it into words. He was very easy to get to know and a loving son.”

The family have invited mourners to wear colours to Gary’s funeral, as a celebration of his life.

Rob added: “We have said that black is optional as, while it is painful for us, it is a celebration of Gary’s life and we want it to be his day.”

Heartfelt tributes have been paid by his many friends, with scores of messages of shock and sadness posted on social networking site Facebook.

Yasmin Gale, fellow former Cantell pupil, said: “You were the little guy at school everyone liked. Funny, smiley and just a really lovely guy. I’m sad you’re gone and too young, it’s such a shame.”

Naomi Rogers, another former school friend, said: “Definitely going to be missed.

Hadn’t seen you in ages but every time I did see you, you were always so happy.”

These sentiments were echoed by Mark Guyatt, who said: “In drama you were my backbone and always put a smile on everyone’s face.”

Gary’s funeral will take place on Wednesday at Southampton Crematorium, East Chapel.

Family flowers only with donations to the respiratory unit at Southampton General Hospital c/o Beestons Funeral Directors, of Shirley Warren.