Dylan Jay Watts, a 28-year-old father from Moruya on the New South Wales South Coast, tragically passed away on March 15. A devoted dad to his eight-year-old son, Dylan had been battling a severe lung infection, according to a GoFundMe page created to support his family.
His younger sister, Caitlyn Watts, shared that Dylan’s lungs had sustained irreversible damage, with doctors finding 72 holes. He was told he would be fortunate to reach his 30th birthday.
“There’s a fragility in all of us,” Caitlyn wrote. “His memory and his story will live on through everyone who loved him. He will be deeply missed. Let this remind you to cherish the people you love—life can change in an instant.”
Dylan’s mother, Suzanne Coote, also expressed her grief in a heartbreaking Facebook post, sharing photos of her son and reflecting on his life.
“My son Dylan left this world far too soon,” she wrote. “He was kind, sensitive, and loyal. A curious and delightful child, and always my baby. Forever young — no regrets.”
She added that the family was still trying to understand how his condition worsened so suddenly and unexpectedly, just three days before his 29th birthday. “We’re still searching for answers,” she said. “He was the light of my life and the strength behind every step I took. I will be his voice.”
The GoFundMe campaign, organized by a family friend, aims to help the Watts family with funeral costs and to plan a meaningful memorial.
“Though Dylan had been unwell, his sudden passing has left his family devastated and overwhelmed,” the page reads. “Please consider donating or sharing, so they can give him the beautiful farewell he deserves.”