Annie Lewis Marffy, a 69-year-old British woman, has tragically lost her life in a Russian drone strike while on an aid mission in Ukraine. The incident occurred in the Donbas region in June, as confirmed by local police. Her family, based in Silverton near Exeter, is now facing the heart-wrenching reality of not having her body returned to them.

Annie had informed her family that she crossed into Ukraine on June 4. She communicated with them via text on June 5 and spoke to her son, Charlie Lewis Marffy, on June 8. After that, there was no further contact. Her family has been left in a state of uncertainty, as they have been unable to obtain a death certificate, which is essential for them to grieve and begin the probate process.

Charlie expressed the family's anguish, stating, "She was brave, capable and determined, but we never wanted her to go. We were worried." The family has been actively seeking assistance from authorities to secure the necessary documentation. The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has indicated that they are providing support, but the issuance of the death certificate is ultimately the responsibility of Ukrainian authorities.

The family’s struggle highlights the challenges faced by those involved in humanitarian efforts in conflict zones, as they navigate the complexities of loss and legal processes amidst ongoing violence.