Janey Godley: Nicola Sturgeon joins mourners at funeral of her impressionist
Friends and loved ones have been gathering to honor the comedian Janey Godley during her funeral in Glasgow.
She passed away earlier this month at the age of 63 after undergoing palliative care for advanced cancer.
The previous first minister, Nicola Sturgeon, was one of the attendees at the service held at St Mary's Cathedral in Glasgow.
Godley unexpectedly gained popularity for her impersonation of Ms. Sturgeon's COVID-19 briefings during the pandemic.
The former SNP leader called her "an unstoppable force" and "one of the most humorous individuals I've ever met."
Other attendees at the service honored Godley's wishes by wearing vibrant colors.
The Very Reverend Kelvin Holdsworth started by sharing with the congregation that Godley would be remembered fondly and with affection. He also mentioned that "forgiveness" would be one of the central themes of the service.
During the service, Ashley Storrie, her daughter and fellow comedian, shared some thoughts. She mentioned that her mother had requested her to be the main speaker at the funeral, but she added, “I can’t tell any of her jokes because it’s the 'house of God' and all that.”
"At her core, she was a comedian. That was her true passion. She gave acting a shot, but she really didn't enjoy it. Singing wasn't her strong suit either. She attempted knitting, but it didn't go well—there are photos of Liam Neeson wearing a truly awful scarf to back that up. But above all, she was a comedian," she continued.
She finished, her voice quivering, by saying, "One last time... let's give a round of applause for my mother, Janey Godley."
The audience then stood up, applauding and cheering enthusiastically.
Gavin Mitchell, known for his role as Bobby the bartender in the television comedy Still Game, was present among those paying their respects.
As the casket was raised from the church, a recording of Godley's well-known phrase echoed for the attendees: "Frank, open the door."
Godley’s coffin was given a two-day "farewell tour" through Edinburgh and Glasgow before her funeral service on Saturday, which will be followed by a private cremation.
Godley disclosed her ovarian cancer diagnosis in November 2021. Though she received a clean bill of health in 2022, the cancer unfortunately came back.
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She passed away at a hospice in Glasgow on November 2, just a short time after receiving an honorary degree from the University of Glasgow.
Recognized for her work in stand-up comedy, which includes various radio programs and multiple TV appearances, Godley was never afraid to speak candidly about cancer or other contentious subjects.
She gained international attention in 2018 when she demonstrated at Donald Trump's Turnberry golf course, displaying a sign that said "Trump is a c***".
