Tributes paid to popular funeral director

Tributes have been paid to a muchloved Fife funeral director as family and friends said their final goodbyes. Billy Fisher, who ran the family firm Fife Funeral Services in Kirkcaldy, passed away on May 16 after suffering complications following a kidney transplant. He was 45. Yesterday, colleagues formed a guard of honour as he made his final journey to Kirkcaldy Crematorium. His sister Tracy Miller, 58, said: “The whole family is grieving so hard, as is his fiancée. It’s just a great loss to us all. “He was loved by everyone and he played such a big part in Kirkcaldy’s welfare. “He was such a gentleman and a gentle man, and he was taken too soon.” The funeral cortege took a short detour past Fife Ice Arena, which had been a huge part of Billy’s life. He took up ice hockey at the former Crystals Arena in Glenrothes and went on to play for the Dundee Tigers. He later helped to establish the Dundee Stars, playing in goal for the team, and was also involved with the Perth Panthers, who at the time trained in Aviemore. For most of his ice hockey career he played alongside lifelong friend Richard Latto, 47. However, unlike Richard, he never played for his town’s team, the Fife Flyers. Richard said: “He loved a laugh and loved the team environment. “He didn’t want to be in the limelight himself, he wanted to help other people. He was like that with everybody. “His family must be heartbroken. We’re his friends and it’s hard enough.” Born in Kirkcaldy, Billy attended Balwearie High School and went on to work in the funeral business, which until recently was managed by his father Gordon. The firm, which celebrated its centenary last year, was originally founded as the Fifeshire Postings Company by Gordon’s grandfather and since 1985 has concentrated solely on funerals. About 18 months ago Billy got engaged to his partner Louise Nicholson. He was described by one colleague as an “amazing boss and person”. Fife Funeral Services said in a statement: “Those of you who knew Billy will know that Fife Funeral Services was a massive part of his life and he took great pride in his role in the business and gave it his all. “The Fisher family endeavour to keep the business, which has been running for 100 years as a family business, and aim to provide the same level of care to families and the funeral industry as they have done previously. “Billy will be sorely missed but his legacy will live on with his family and the staff of Fife Funeral Services ensuring the business will continue for many more years to come.”

Billy Fisher’s funeral procession passes Fife Ice Arena.

Billy Fisher was 45 when he died.