Tributes have been paid to a “sweetheart” with a “heart of gold” who has died suddenly at the age of just 34.
Community champion Brenda Connelly, nee McLaughlin, passed away unexpectedly at Forth Valley Royal Hospital on June 23.
The “treasured daughter” of Nan and the late Gerry McLaughlin and a “beloved and caring wife” to Loreto Connelly, she was known for having the same community spirit and willingness to help as the Cultenhove couple.
They were by her side when she married husband Loreto in 2019.
Nan and her husband Gerry won national accolades for their tireless community work in Cultenhove through Cultenhove Opportunities Partnership, including organising day trips and events for local youngsters as well as numerous ongoing projects.
Their efforts were all the more remarkable for the fact that both were completely blind.
And their willingness to help others was reflected by Brenda.
Despite having her own difficulties, Brenda was an incredible support to the couple, and they to her.
In 2006, Nan said; “She has never let me walk into a wall and I have never fallen. I have complete faith in her. She is a very good guide and she just seems to have accepted that role naturally.”
Brenda was known for her trusting and caring nature and spent much of her time volunteering.
A member of Stirling Young Carers for several years, she also gave her time to meet others who understood her situation and while a pupil at St Modan’s High School she had her name on the PTA shield.
As well as working with children with autism she was also a volunteer with Cultenhove Opportunities Partnership.
In 2006 Nan and Brenda were among the subjects of a special photographic exhibition “24 hours”, a series of 24 portraits of carers from across Scotland.
The images went on display in the Scottish Parliament — where the pair went for the official launch, meeting some of the country’s most influential politicians.
Stirling councillor and family friend Alasdair MacPherson said: ““Like many, I was really shocked when I heard Brenda had tragically died.
“I kept in touch with Brenda since her dad died and know how she was keen to continue the incredibly unselfish work that Gerry and her mum did for the Cultenhove community.
“Brenda was a bubbly and kind young lady, who like Gerry and
Nan had a heart of gold.
“She will be sadly missed by missed by those who knew her. My heart goes out to her husband Loreto and her mum Nan at this very sad time.”
People flocked to social media to pay tribute to Brenda.
Cultenhove Opportunities said: “We are all devastated at the loss of our long time volunteer and friend Brenda. Rest in peace.”
Former COP team member Margaret-Anne Ewart added: “Absolutely devastating to hear about our Brenda. I loved my time working at Cultenhove Opportunities and the chance to meet her and everyone else. Sad loss for everyone.”
Lori Dempster said: “So sad. She was such a nice girl, she loved helping at toddlers when I took my son there.”
Morag Fulton added: “Still in total shock. Such an absolutely special, caring, amazing lassie. Heart utterly aches for Nan, Lawrie and all her family and friends.”
Leona Lenaghan said: “Brenda, what a gem and such a sweetheart.”
Veronica Ross added: “So sad. Would help anyone out if she could and loved a chat whenever she saw us. Thinking of Nan, her husband and family.”
Lee Inglis said: “So so sad. She was a gentle soul, she never passed without a hello. Thinking of all her family at this sad time. RIP. Too good for this world Brenda.”
Brenda’s funeral took place at St Ninians United Free Church last Thursday, where mourners were asked to “wear something pink” in her honour.
