Kelly’s was a life simply ‘too beautiful to be forgotten’

A seat has been unveiled in Solitude Park in memory of Kelly McClimond, a well known and loved figure in the Banbridge area who worked tirelessly to raise funds for cancer charities.
Kelly McClimondKelly McClimond
Kelly McClimond

Kelly’s twin brother Jason Mccaw was proud to unveil the plaque on the memorial seat in honour of his sister, last Friday March 6.

Through heartache and tears, Kelly’s mum Nan McCaw spoke of how ‘pleased and proud’ she is that this gesture has been made to mark her daughter’s work.

“I’m so proud of what she did for McMillan Cancer Care and for the Southern Area Hospice for many years - she raised so much and was so well thought of,” said Nan.

Jason McCaw, twin brother of the late Kelly McClimmond rests on the new bench in memory of Kelly in Solitude Park. The incsciption on the bench reads, Erected in memory of Kelly (McClimmond nee McCaw) aged 41 years daughter, sister, twin and friend to all "Too beautiful a life to be forgotten...." ©Edward Byrne Photography INBL1510-220EBJason McCaw, twin brother of the late Kelly McClimmond rests on the new bench in memory of Kelly in Solitude Park. The incsciption on the bench reads, Erected in memory of Kelly (McClimmond nee McCaw) aged 41 years daughter, sister, twin and friend to all "Too beautiful a life to be forgotten...." ©Edward Byrne Photography INBL1510-220EB
Jason McCaw, twin brother of the late Kelly McClimmond rests on the new bench in memory of Kelly in Solitude Park. The incsciption on the bench reads, Erected in memory of Kelly (McClimmond nee McCaw) aged 41 years daughter, sister, twin and friend to all "Too beautiful a life to be forgotten...." ©Edward Byrne Photography INBL1510-220EB

“She was too special for this life - from the day of her birth I knew there was just something special about her. Even her twin brother has said he feels like half of him has gone with her.

“ I really wan to say a heartfelt thank you to the anonymous person who donated this seat in memory of Kelly and also to the people who gave donations to McMillan cancer. I appreciate this and want to thank everyone.

“I feel a bit closer to her now - it’s somewhere special I can go to remember her and somewhere people can go for reflection.”

The family and friends of Kelly also expressed thanks to Norah Beare, Banbridge council staff, Banbridge councillors and local MLA Jo-Anne Dobson for their assistance in erecting the seat on the second anniversary of her passing, and they are inviting all her friends and family members to enjoy it in her memory.

The other donations received where passed to Macmillian Cancer Care in memory of Kelly.

Norah Beare said: “Following my approach to Banbridge District Council’s Environmental Services Committee, permission was granted by the full Council to erect a seat in Kelly’s memory.

“An article appeared in a local paper some months ago seeking donations but after only two days an anonymous donor came forward and the full cost of the seat was received.

“Subsequent donations were forwarded to the Banbridge Branch of Macmillan Cancer Support.

“I wish to extend my personal thanks not only to the donor but to Mr Eric Morton and staff, Banbridge District Council in assisting with the erection of the seat.”

Paying tribute to Kelly, Norah continued: “Although I only knew her for a short time she was the most beautiful young woman both inside and out totally dedicated to helping others.

“Kelly’s smile lit up a room and in her presence you soon forgot feeling down. I will always treasure my memories of Kelly and am so grateful that her path crossed mine.

“Definitely - too beautiful a life to be forgotten.”

Tributes to Kelly were also made by friends.

Tracey McDowell said: “My beautiful, special friend - it’s been two years since we lost you to that horrible disease you fought so hard against all of your short life, but it doesn’t matter if it is two years, 10 years or 20 years I will never forget you.

“An angel gained, a distance apart, our friendship lives on, a place in my heart.”

Tracey Grant said: “two years since you went to heaven, because I know you never left us, we still hear you everyday. Miss you.”

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