Worthing: Family Release Tribute

22 November 2013, 16:20 | Updated: 22 November 2013, 16:36

The family of a woman who was found dead in Worthing have released a heartfelt tribute to her, together with two photographs.

50-year-old Jacqueline Cowdrey, known as Jacqui, was found dead in her ground flat in Heron Court, Victoria Road, Worthing, shortly before 6pm on Tuesday (19 November).
 
The incident is currently being treated as suspicious and detectives from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team are investigating.
 
In the tribute, members of Jacqui's close family say; ""It is so difficult to sum up Jacqui in a few words. Jacqui was a complex character who was determined to live life her way. This was a strength but also made her vulnerable. Jacqui faced many challenges in her life including epilepsy, depression and a dependence on alcohol, which in the last few months she had made great efforts to overcome. She also experienced much prejudice due to some of her life choices.
 
"Despite these difficulties, Jacqui battled to maintain her independence and never wanted anyone to feel sorry for her. Jacqui cared deeply for people close to her and she had a generous heart. She was determined to do what she could to support her mum, assisting her in a wide range of ways. Jacqui had many interests including big cats, gaming, Scottish band music and all things science fiction, especially Star Trek. She was a real trekkie. Jacqui's presence was undeniable and she will be missed greatly by her family and friends who loved her. Jacqui, go boldly to a non-judgemental, pain free and peaceful place."

A 34-year-old man from Worthing who was arrested on Tuesday (19 November) on suspicion of murder has been released on bail until 28 January and a 63-year-old man from Worthing who was arrested on Wednesday (20 November) on suspicion of murder, has been released on bail until the same date.

A post mortem was carried out on Wednesday but further tests need to be done to confirm the cause of death.

Detective Inspector Gordon Denslow said: "We are still trying to confirm exactly what happened to the woman in the hours before her death.

"We believe she was in an argument with a man in Bedford Row, close to the Vintner's Parrot pub in Warwick Street. Did you see or hear that argument taking place, some time between 4pm and 7pm on Monday (18 November) ?

"We would still also like to speak to anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious at Heron Court in the hours before we were contacted.

"Please contact us if you know anything at all about what happened."

Anyone with information should call 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting Operation Seal, or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."