Stevie Lee’s heartbroken family using crowdfunding to pay for his funeral

Jackass star Stevie Lee’s funeral will be paid for by crowdfunding after a GoFundMe page was set up on behalf of his family.

Stevie, known by stage name Puppet The Psycho Dwarf, died at the age of 54 on Wednesday.

A GoFundMe page, set up on behalf of Stevie’s family to cover funeral costs, told that Stevie died “unexpectedly”, as it urged fans to chip in.

The page has set a target of $5,000 (£3,896), the description reading: “Steve ‘Puppet The Psycho Dwarf’ Lee Richardson unexpectedly passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2020 at his home in the morning.

“He was beloved by many and has many friends that were family, fans that adored him, but only his brother Jim left to take care of final arrangements.”

The organiser, named as Jacob Colyer, added: “Puppet has put smiles across the world with his hardcore attitude and lifestyle. He is a legend in the art of Midget Wrestling. He needs our help to give him one last curtain call.

“Please donate what you can, share his memories with everyone, and share this fundraiser to give the Psycho Dwarf the best resting place possible.

“All proceeds will be given to Jim Richardson to handle the services/burial costs.

“Thank you all so much and Puppet, we love you brother!”

One of Stevie’s best known roles was in Jackass 3D, as well as his own reality show, Half Pint Brawlers.

He also set up and ran his own wrestling company, and boasted roles in American Horror Story, Baby Fever the Movie, and Oz the Great and Powerful.

Impact Wrestling – formerly known as TNA – also shared a statement following Stevie’s death.

“It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Stevie Lee, better known as ‘Puppet The Psycho Dwarf’ in the early days of TNA,” they told.

“We send our deepest condolences to his friends and family.”

Fans have also been pouring their hearts out on social media and the funding page.

“I am sorry for your loss,” one generous donor wrote, “Prayers.”

“RIP Stevie Lee,” another tweeted, alongside a heart emoji.

Another shared a rose emoji, writing: “Rest in peace, Stevie Lee.”