A DENTON-BASED teacher took his own life after his family begged him not to, an inquest heard.
Sam Jones died three days after being found in a cemetery by relatives on the evening of July 23.
An inquest at South Manchester Coroner’s Court in Stockport was told Sam contacted his mother to say he was planning on taking his own life.
While he did not say where he was, his family knew he would be where his grandmother was buried.
And the 28-year-old’s father, Chris, told the hearing: “I begged him not to do it.” His brother also attempted to help.
After the incident, Sam was taken to Tameside Hospital before being taken to Manchester Royal Infirmary’s critical care unit – he was pronounced dead on July 26.
The court heard Sam progressed to being an assistant deputy headteacher at Oldham’s Oasis Academy Leesbrook, who described him as an ‘exceptional and gifted teacher, valued and respected’ by staff, students and parents.
He played semi-pro football for a number of local teams, including Wythenshawe Town FC.
Senior coroner Alison Mutch told Sam’s family: “I have to say how you managed to do all of that under those circumstances says a lot about your commitment to try and do the best for him.
“I understand it must have been a very difficult situation for everyone.”
However, she was unable to rule Sam’s death as suicide as there was no clear evidence to suggest he had fully understood the severity of his actions.
His death was ruled as the consequence of self-asphyxiation.
Ms Mutch added: “You obviously loved him very much and wanted to support him as much as possible.
“You were very close to him and wanted to make sure he had the best and most supportive environment.
“That level of support is shown on the day when Sam was found. Those must have been very dark and difficult days for you all.”
The hearing was told number of Sam’s organs have been donated to others in need, with Mr Jones adding: “It was one of Sam’s wishes so that’s what we chose to do.”
The coroner said: “I hope it served as a small comfort at a very difficult time of grief.”