Heartfelt farewell to Emsworth mother who died from cancer

The funeral of Lindsey Gates, from Emsworth, was held at St Thomas à Becket Church in Warblington yesterday.

Lindsey died of brain cancer, aged 41, while at The Rowans Hospice in Purbrook this month.

She is survived by her husband Jason, and daughters Brooke and Charley.

Several other family members and friends wore red for the ceremony to honour one of Lindsey’s last wishes.

Celebrant Janice Cubis led the service, and read a eulogy on behalf of the family.

Heartfelt poems that had been handpicked by Lindsey’s daughters and mother were also read.

Tears, smiles and laughter filled the church as Lindsey was described as ‘inspiring, loud, impatient, friendly and outgoing’.

The eulogy read: ‘Her passing has left a huge gap in all our lives.

‘Whether she’d have realised it or not, her life has clearly touched many others.’

Memories of a friend, daughter, mother and sister were shared between guests while they listened to some of her favourite singers.

The reflection period was soundtracked by The Harder We Fall by Jessie J – one of the many artists that Lindsey went to see in concert with her eldest daughter Charley.

As the procession exited the church for the burial, a recording of Michael Jackson’s Gone Too Soon was played.

Following the poignant ceremony, Lindsey’s body was committed at Warblington cemetery.

In keeping with her favourite colour, the mourners placed roses and red petals on her casket,

They also released dozens of red, heart-shaped balloons.

Lindsey’s best friend, Becky Conway, said: ‘I have never seen a family cope so well, they have been so strong, it’s been unbelievable.

‘They would not have pulled through if it wasn’t for the amount of support they had received.’

The family expressed their gratitude not only to everyone who attended the funeral, but also for the continued support over the last couple of months.

Husband Jason said: ‘I don’t need to say how strong and inspirational Lindsey was, all who know her know that for themselves.

‘Our lives will never be the same without Lindsey and we will miss her deeply. We will stick together as a family remembering the happy times we shared and it’s now important to work on making new memories.

‘As Lindsey’s personality continues to grow through our girls, she will be with us every step we take. She’s forever in my heart.’