Family and friends of Salty Rooster owner, Jimmy Sagiotis, honoured his life this weekend with a gathering and board paddle out at Queenscliff Beach yesterday, 14 October 2023.
The 48 year old well loved community member died from a series of heart attacks earlier this month.
Around 100 family and mates, along with Salty Rooster’s staff and well wishers from the community, gathered together on the sand as local sport identity and Jimmy’s close friend, Alex Hayes , asked beach-goers to join hands as he spoke to the group about Jimmy and what he meant to the community.
“Jimmy had time for everyone. He lived his life with love and had a passion for living each day to the fullest.
“We love you mate,” he said.
The boards then headed out in to the water, where the group, which included Jimmy’s children, formed a circle and paid tribute to his memory, as flowers were cast in to the sea in his honour.
It was an emotional moment for Jimmy’s fiancé, Claudine, mother Sophia and sister Aspa, along with Jimmy’s two boys and Claudine’s two children, who spoke of their gratitude for the support they’ve received from the community.
“We are eternally grateful for the love and support we’ve received in this unimaginable period of grief,” a family spokesperson said.
One friend of the family said it was a fitting farewell for a life lost too soon.
“Jimmy was truly remarkable. His contagious personality, zest for life, and unwavering dedication to his family were out of this world.
“He lived with an open heart and an open mind, always ready to embrace anyone and make them feel like family in an instant.
“We’ll miss you, buddy. Life won’t be the same without you, but your memory will shine brightly every day,” she said
Another added, “It really felt like Jimmy was with us on this beautiful day.
“He would be so stoked to see everyone out on the doorstep of Salty Rooster remembering him in this way.”
The group paid tribute to Jimmy as he would have wanted, and finished with a reminder to “Live like Jimmy”.
Jimmy Sagiotis will be laid to rest this Tuesday at Botany Cemetery in Matraville.
Specials thanks to Fliss Hamblin for the coordinating words and pictures for this story.
The funeral has been arranged for Tuesday 17 October at 11am. The service will be held at st Catherine’s in Mascot, and Jimmy will be buried at the cemetery in Botany.
A fundraiser for his funeral costs and young children has been organised.
