FAREWELL TO BELOVED TOYAH
TOYAH Cordingley has been remembered as a kind soul who loved animals, everything Harry Potter and made an impact on the lives of all those around her.
More than 350 people gathered yesterday morning to celebrate the life of the beloved 24- year- old.
Celebrant and family friend David County said even though Toyah’s life was cut short, it was filled with love.
Toyah ( left) was murdered on October 21 at Wangetti Beach after going for a walk with her dog.
“Today is not a day to be angry, today’s not a day to hate, today’s a day to love and reflect on how Toyah impacted our lives,” he said.
“When you remember member the good times. her, re-
“The love, the laughter, the joy, these are the memories we want to keep forever, not the bad ones.”
He shared stories about Toyah’s love for animals, which started at a young age.
She was a foster carer for many cats and dogs over the years and helped find homes for many animals.
“She was the mother to many furbabies,” Mr County said.
Toyah’s mother Vanessa Gardiner also shared special memories.
“When I was pregnant with Toyah ( her grandmother) would always say ‘ that baby’s going to be born with wings’ due to my love of fairies,” she said.
“So I will say, spread your wings my little Toyah and fly away with those fairies. I know you’ll be forever safe in their arms. We love you.”
Toyah’s partner Marco Heiden- reich also shared his love for her in a message he wrote that was read out at the service.
“To the most beautiful person I’ve ever had the pleasure of sharing my life with,” he wrote. “You captivated me with your beautiful soul.
“Each moment I spent with you made me love you more. I will always love you with all that I am.
“You will forever be in my mind and in my heart as you always were before.”
Toyah’s sister, Leynah Gardiner, remembered her as a kind and loving soul.
“You’re without a doubt the best sister in the world and nothing will ever change that,” she said.
A group of friends also shared memories of Toyah, from childhood and school days to travelling through Europe for her 21st birthday.