Grieving family attend service to remember their ‘beautiful’ Libby
HUNDREDS ATTEND EMOTIONAL UNIVERSITY SERVICE IN MEMORY OF 21-YEAR-OLD STUDENT
THIS is the emotional moment the grieving family of Libby Squire came together and clutched each for support as friends and fellow students gathered to remember the “popular and beautiful” 21-yearold.
Lisa and Russ Squire were joined by two of their children on campus at the University of Hull to remember their eldest daughter.
In a poignant service attended by hundreds of people, the distraught mum, who affectionately called her daughter “Pie”, could be seen visibly upset as she was comforted by her children and husband.
A minute’s silence was impeccably observed by all those who attended before Hull University Union President Osaro Otobo spoke about the moving support shown by the people of Hull since Libby’s death.
Miss Otobo said: “During this incredibly sad time, what has struck me is how we have united to support one another and to offer help where we can and to ensure Libby’s friends and family know we are all thinking of them.
“I have been moved by the outpouring of support, with people offering anything they can do to help, from the local community church, who have provided space for peace and reflection to the university who have offered unfailing support for our members at this difficult time.
“Like many of you here today, I did not know Libby personally but over the past six weeks we have heard many stories about her. Her passion for her chosen subject, how she was an incredible friend to many and the joy she brought to the lives of those who knew her.
“I have read many messages left today. They are messages of a community in shock and sadness but also ones of determination that Libby will forever be remembered as a member of our community.”
Russ could be seen embracing his daughter as Miss Otobo and vice-chancellor Professor Susan Lea paid tribute to Libby, with Lisa supported in grief by her son.
At 5.10pm, the congregation walked from the plaza towards the tree which has become a shrine to Libby since her death.
The family silently mingled with students, staff and members of the community during the walk with tiny, but touching gestures made by members of the public.
At one point a woman placed her arm around the back of Lisa as she walked with her son towards the Canham Turner Building.
It was a small gesture, but one that epitomises the support Hull has shown for the Squire family with people holding them in their thoughts and prayers since Libby’s death.
As people gathered under the shade of the large oak tree as evening drew in, now filled with dozens of flowers and heartfelt messages in memory of Libby, Lisa and her son took a moment to appreciate the outpouring of support shown by students.
The pair hugged as they made their way along the path before looking and pointing at the tributes.
Clearly moved by what they had
seen, the mother and son looked down at the floral tributes to their much-loved daughter and sister before once again reconvening with the other members of the Squire family and walking on towards the Canham Turner Building.
The family have not spoken out publicly since Libby’s death but Lisa posted a heart-wrenching tribute in memory of her daughter on Facebook.
She described the torment and agony of losing her eldest daughter before apologising to her for not keeping her safe on the night she went missing.
Lisa, who lives in West Wycombe in Buckinghamshire, said: “My baby girl is gone. Gone forever. I have lost one of the four most precious things in my life.
“I cannot thank you enough my darling Pie for making me a mummy. For choosing me to be your mummy. It’s an honour, a privilege and a joy.
“I kept you safe for as long as I could and I am so sorry I could not keep you safe on that night. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.
“I love you my beautiful girl with all my being and I always will. Until we meet again my Pie. I love you more xxxxxx.”