Bernard Fowler, 87, of Hamilton Drive in Harold Wood, was killed as he made his regular early morning trip to Harold Wood train station to collect newspapers for his neighbours.
At the station he encountered paranoid schizophrenic Sekai Miles, 23, of Brent Cross Gardens in Hendon, who had been released from a community treatment order weeks earlier.
Miles set about Bernard, gouging his eyes before bludgeoning him with his own walking stick.
“This was horrific and unprovoked violence which claimed the life of a much loved and respected father and grandfather,” said Det Ch Insp Sam Painter, the senior investigating officer for British Transport Police.
“I know that no result can possibly make up for the pain and devastation that the loss of Bernard has brought, but I hope that the outcome will help them find comfort.”
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In a statement issued via police, Bernard’s family said: “No sentence can ever bring our beloved Bernard back.
“Bernard was a kind, loving grandfather, father and friend to everyone fortunate enough to have known him.
“He brought warmth and joy to so many lives and his absence leaves a void that can never be filled. He will be deeply missed by all.
“As a family, we respectfully ask for privacy as we begin to heal from this truly harrowing ordeal.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the officers who worked tirelessly on this case to ensure justice was achieved for Bernard.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude in particular to our family liaison officer Jess Nye. Her unwavering guidance and support during this unimaginable time have been invaluable, and we are forever grateful. She is a true asset to the British Transport Police.”
