Musse Ali, of no fixed address, is charged with murdering 77-year-old Hilkiah McLeggan on Sunday, November 10, at the historic market in Walworth.
Ali is also accused of attempting to murder two other men who were stabbed during the incident.
On Wednesday (March 5) Ali appeared at the Old Bailey via video-link from Broadmoor secure hospital.
He was due to enter pleas to the charges but the case was adjourned until July.
“He was a hard-working man who worked on past his retirement because he knew he could offer more of himself and enjoyed being amongst his colleagues who were also his friends.
“He was a great support to so many and would offer his help without hesitation to support their needs.
“His family and friends are devastated and are struggling to make sense of this terrible event.
“The family would like to express their gratitude to everyone that has expressed their condolences and those that have set up a special memorial at East Street Market that he frequented so often for many decades.”
The family thanked “all the wonderful people” at East Street Market for their bravery in apprehending the suspect, the London Ambulance Service and police and asked for privacy “while they come to terms with such a tragic, senseless and devastating loss”.
The statement added: “The family encourage those who have been affected by this to seek help and support if needed.
“Our best wishes are extended to the other victims and their family. We hope they have a positive outcome and wish them well on their recovery.”
