The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Friends help grieving family of Kathleen
perth: Teenager who died in Tay tragedy laid to rest
A parish priest has described the “love and support of friends and family” which he says helped after the loss of a Perth teenager laid to rest yesterday.
The Very Rev Martin Canon Drysdale, of St John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Perth, spoke of the “tragic loss” of 15-year-old Kathleen Harkin, whose body was found in the River Tay near St Madoes on October 10.
He spoke following the hour-long funeral service held in memory of the tragic teenager, which saw an outpouring of grief from family and friends of the ex-Perth Grammar pupil.
Mr Drysdale said it was “such a tragedy” the teenager had died but stressed he was pleased to witness the love and support of family and friends.
“There was a good turnout today and it’s good to see everyone here supporting the family at this difficult time – they have really helped matters,” he said.
Around 300 mourners attended the service where they heard of Kathleen’s life being taken “too soon”.
One of her cousins spoke during the service, where he described “our beautiful girl, forever and always in our hearts”.
He said Kathleen, known as Kate Jo, had grown up enjoying the normal things in life, including a love of horses and fishing.
Many of her favourite songs were played during the funeral mass. The theme of the order of service was dedicated to popular children’s book Guess How Much I Love You.
The floral tributes included a large wreath spelling her name which was laid beside the coffin inside the chapel, along with a photograph of Kathleen.
Donations were given to the RNLI following the service. They had been involved in the search for Kathleen.
Tributes are still being made to her on a dedicated Facebook page.
St Johnstone fans also paid tribute during their home match against Kilmarnock when supporters held a banner aloft saying ‘RIP Kathleen’ and took part in a minute’s applause during the 15th minute of the game.
It’s good to see everyone here supporting the family at this difficult time