Janey Godley’s close friend and a 100-strong female choir are set to accompany the comedian’s hearse in a final farewell procession through Edinburgh. The beloved comedian passed away on November 2 at the age of 63 after a battle with ovarian cancer. The procession, organised by funeral directors Alexander Whitelaw & Co., will commence from Lawnmarket at 2.30pm on Friday, taking a final tour of Edinburgh in honour of Janey.
The hearse will travel along The Royal Mile towards St Giles Cathedral, where a moment of reflection will be observed, followed by a performance by the all-female 100-piece Sound House Choir and friends. Janey’s daughter, Ashley Storrie, shared the plans for her mother’s farewell on social media, mentioning that the procession will take place on Friday, November 29, and St Andrew’s Day, Saturday, November 30. This final tour will allow well-wishers to pay their respects to Janey as she bids adieu to the city she cherished before returning to Glasgow.
Ashley also revealed that a service will be held at St Mary’s Cathedral on Great Western Road at 10am on Saturday, November 30, following the procession in Edinburgh. In line with Janey’s wishes, donations to the Princess of Wales Hospice, where she spent her final days, are encouraged instead of flowers. Mourners are also asked to wear bright colours on the day of the funeral to honour Janey’s vibrant spirit.
Janey Godley was known for her iconic voiceovers of Nicola Sturgeon during the Covid pandemic and her one-woman protest outside Donald Trump’s Turnberry Hotel in Ayrshire. Despite her diagnosis of ovarian cancer in November 2021, Janey continued to share her journey with the world, offering support to others and raising awareness about the disease with her trademark humour and honesty. Her manager, Chris Davis, fondly remembered her as a comedic legend and a unique personality who will be dearly missed.
In the midst of grief and loss, Janey’s final journey through Edinburgh stands as a poignant tribute to her life and legacy. As her loved ones and fans gather to bid her farewell, the procession symbolizes not just an end, but a celebration of a remarkable woman who touched the hearts of many with her wit, courage, and irrepressible spirit. Janey’s memory will live on in the laughter she brought and the indelible mark she left on the world of comedy.
Insights:
The procession planned for Janey Godley’s final farewell in Edinburgh is a touching tribute to the comedian’s life and impact on the world of comedy. The inclusion of a 100-strong female choir and the support from her close friend highlights the love and respect she garnered throughout her career. Janey’s choice to raise awareness about ovarian cancer and her request for donations to the Princess of Wales Hospice exemplify her selfless nature even in her final days. The procession not only honours Janey’s memory but also serves as a reminder of the power of laughter and resilience in the face of adversity.