The death of a fitness instructor has devastated many people in the Kilmarnock community.
Galleon Centre stalwart Chivonne Houston-Smith marked her 60th birthday in May this year — a milestone that coincided with the 35th anniversary of the popular leisure venue.
The aerobics instructor spent the majority of her career teaching fitness classes at the Kilmarnock centre and said earlier this year that she had no intention of giving up her beloved vocation.
Chivonne was one of the first in the door of the new Galleon in 1987, initially juggling 25 aerobic classes and reception work each week.
While this was reduced to 12 classes a week in recent months, Chivonne's passion for fitness and warmth towards her clients, who were more like friends, was undeniable.
Speaking to the Kilmarnock Standard as part of a feature on the Galleon's recent 35th anniversary, Chivonne said that her 35 years at the Galleon was only broken by a year-long stint in Australia.
She said in May: "I heard about the Galleon opening and I came down and spoke to the manager and he said they were starting aerobic classes and I took the very first one and I got into reception.
"I used to go upstairs and do a class, come back and have a shower then put my uniform on and go back to reception. I did that for years.
"I still do 12 a week and used to do 25 a week in here and in different places but my old bones won't take it anymore but I still love it as much."
In a stirring tribute, the Galleon announced Chivonne's passing this evening, saying it was impossible to put into words how much she will be missed.
The statement read: "The Galleon Centre would like to inform all of our customers and colleagues of the very sad news relating to one of our most loved members of staff, Chivonne Houston-Smith.
"Since taking the very first aerobics class in the galleon centre 35 years ago, Chivonne was an extremely popular instructor and well known by almost everyone who participated in aerobics and fitness.
"The news of the Chivonne's death has come as a shock to all her colleagues at the centre, and to our customers who look forward to their workouts with her on an almost daily basis.
"It is impossible to put into words how much she will be missed."
As a mark of respect, no fitness classes will take place on the morning of Chivonne's funeral, which has been arranged for November 1 at Dreghorn's Holmsford Bridge crematorium.
The statement continued: "Chivonne's funeral service will take place at Holmsford Bridge crematorium at 12.30pm pm on Tuesday, November 1.
"As a mark of respect, there will be no classes operating in the galleon centre on the morning of the funeral.
"Our thoughts at this time are with Chivonne's family and friends."
The news has sent shockwaves through everyone associated with the centre with dozens of tributes being paid.
One person wrote: "Still in shock on hearing the news. Chivonne was such a major part of the Galleon, you were not only just her clients, she also became a friend to many over the year, she was always delighted to see you She will be missed dearly by all."
Another said: "It's so hard to accept 'The Queen of the Galleon' is no longer with us.
"She was truly a great instructor and a kind caring person
"Her presence is still felt within the Galleon and she will be making sure all the instructors carry on her good work."
While one person concluded: "Chivonne you will be missed tremendously.
"From the very first time I walked into the centre to teach you were there to help support and guide me through the ins and outs of instructing.
"I will forever be grateful for your willingness to share your experiences with me and for allowing me to cover for you when you were taking a well-deserved break.
"I am heartbroken for your family, fellow instructors, class participants and all whose life was made better when you crossed their path. You were an inspiration to all."
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