RENFREWSHIRE REFLECTS ON VICTIMS OF COVID-19 Memorial honours those who lost their lives to coronavirus
Provost unveils stone in Hawkhead Cemetery
A memorial to the thousands of Renfrewshire people denied a traditional funeral service throughout the Covid-19 pandemic has been erected.
Situated in Hawkhead Cemetery, the permanent memorial is dedicated to all those who have passed away in the past 14 months, including the 525 people who died of the virus locally.
The brainchild of Provost Lorraine Cameron, the granite memorial reads: “In memory of all who died during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Always loved, never forgotten, forever missed.”
It was created in a bid to offer heartbroken families a place to reflect and remember loved ones who passed away during a traumatic time for the whole community.
The stone tribute, situated next to the fountain at the front of the cemetery, was made possible thanks to the efforts of Joe McDonagh, of Steven Cameron Funeral Directors, and Alan McPherson of McPherson Memorials.
Provost Cameron told the Express: “As the year progressed, I realised that we were going to need some sort of lasting memorial to honour those who lost their lives during the pandemic, whether it was due to Covid-19 or not. “
As gatherings were restricted for funerals, some people were unable to go through the grieving process in the normal way.
“For those who couldn’t mourn at a funeral service, unless there was a grave to visit there was absolutely no closure for them.
“I hope this memorial helps people in their sadness and gives them a place to go to in their grief.”
She added: “I am indebted to Joe and Alan for helping to make this happen.
“They have big hearts and a lot of respect for their community, which is displayed in this act of kindness.”
The memorial has quickly become a focal point within the Paisley cemetery, with several families and community figures having already turned out to pay their respects.
Tony Fitzpatrick, from St Mirren Football Club - whose community foundation has been a lifeline to many throughout the pandemic - was among the first to lay flowers at the site during a visit to the cemetery last week.
Joe, who has been trying to support grieving families throughout the pandemic, said the inability to say goodbye to people in the traditional way has had a profound effect on many Renfrewshire families.
“The past year has been heartbreaking,” he said.
“It really has been horrific for the families going through it.
“People have been denied the opportunity to see their loved ones for the last time, to touch the coffin, to say goodbye.
“For most, the last time they went into hospital was the last time they saw them.”
He added: “I hope the memorial does offer people some comfort.
“It is somewhere people can go, not just to remember their mum or dad, but for everyone who suffered throughout the pandemic.”
Joe shared his concerns for families with long-time friend Alan, who offered to donate the stone for the memorial.
Alan said he was pleased to be able to play a part in creating a permanent tribute for the people of Renfrewshire.
Alan said: “I was more than happy to donate the stone for this memorial, which will hopefully provide a place of comfort, not only for the people of Renfrewshire, but those further afield who have lost someone during the pandemic.
“People have been laying flowers, which shows that it is already providing a place to go and spend time remembering loved ones, , friends and neighbours.
“This memori a l recognises a tragic time in our history and I am pleased that the provost, Renfrewshire Council and wider community have supported and welcomed its installation.”
I hope this memorial helps people in their sadness and gives them a place to go in their grief