Tributes have been paid to a Hatfield mum whose "life was tragically cut short" after she died from taking morphine given to her by an 83-year-old man.
Lily Gomes, 27, died in hospital from morphine toxicity on February 18, 2025, four days after she fell unconscious at the home of Arthur Sutton.
He will be sentenced at St Albans Crown Court on Friday, October 9.
In an emotional tribute, Lily's family said she "cared enormously about her family" and "her children who were the centre of her world".
"Lily was so much more than the circumstances in which we lost her. She was a daughter, sister, mum, granddaughter and friend, and she was deeply loved by all of us," they said.
"Lily was vivacious, loud, funny and completely herself. She was brave and bolshy, with a huge personality and a heart just as big.
"She was fiercely loyal and fiercely protective of the people she loved. Above all, Lily cared enormously about her family and, most of all, her children who were the centre of her world.
"For us, there are so many memories of Lily that we will always hold onto; the laughter, the arguments, the ridiculous things she did, and the countless little moments that made her who she was.
"She will be missed more than words can say, especially by her children, who have lost their mum far too soon.
"We will do everything we can to keep Lily's memory alive for her children. We will talk about her, laugh about her, tell them our stories, and make sure they grow up knowing just how deeply their mum was loved and what a special person she was.
"Lily, we miss you, we love you and you will never be forgotten. Thank you to all those involved who supported and fought for justice for Lily."
Lily's family are hopeful her tragic death will lead to positive changes, adding: "Whilst it would seem justice has been served, it will never bring our Lily back.
"Lily's life was tragically cut short, and whilst we will never be able to heal from this, that will never be the entirety of her story.
"Her story is also one of love, family, friendship, laughter and memories. Lily’s death will now hopefully lead to positive changes."
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