Paris, the city of lights, witnessed heartfelt farewells on February 6, 2025, as friends, family, and the public gathered at the historic Saint-Roch Church to honor Catherine Laborde, the beloved former weather presenter for TF1. Laborde, who died on January 28 at the age of 73 after battling Lewy body dementia, was remembered for her radiant personality and dedication to the art of television.
The ceremony began at 14:00, filled with emotional tributes from those who knew and loved her. Luminaries from the media world, including Evelyne Dhéliat, Claire Chazal, Gilles Bouleau, and Jean-Luc Reichmann, formed part of the congregation, reflecting her vast impact on French television. Even former Prime Minister François Bayrou made his presence known, reminiscing about their friendship from school days. "Le temps restera couvert par son absence," noted Guy Carlier, capturing the sentiment of loss felt by so many.
Laborde's sister, Françoise, shaped the ceremony according to Catherine's wishes for it to be open and accessible. "Elle voulait une cérémonie populaire," she expressed, ensuring the event was welcoming to all who wanted to pay their respects. Françoise shared loving anecdotes from their childhood, emphasizing Catherine’s dedication to her career and her love for her family.
Catherine had requested no floral tributes; instead, she wanted attendees to donate to the association supporting those suffering from Lewy body dementia, reflecting her compassion for others wrestling with similar hardships. Her family accurately conveyed this sentiment, stating, "Ni fleurs ni couronnes," as they encouraged contributions to causes close to Catherine's heart.
Among the touching memories shared during the service was one from Thomas Stern, Catherine’s husband, who reminisced about the “grâce cristalline” of her voice, which captivated audiences for nearly three decades. Another evocative moment came from Françoise, reminding all present about the unexpected joy Catherine found when she ventured from acting to presenting the weather at TF1. "Tu ne t'attendais pas à ce que la météo t'apporte autant de bonheur et de satisfaction," she reflected, capturing how fate can deliver surprising twists.
Catherine Laborde shone brightly on TF1 from 1988 until her retirement on January 1, 2017. The poignant final farewell came as she emotionally said goodbye to the audience, leaving behind her iconic memories without knowledge of the ailment consuming her health. "Je vous emporte avec moi. Vous m'oublierez? Moi non. Je vous aime,” were her final words, leaving many touched and emotional.
The atmosphere at Saint-Roch was thick with emotion, accented by the silhouettes of family members, including her daughters Gabrièle and Pia, who stood firm, flanked by their father Jimmy—illustrative of the united family facing this great loss. The couple’s history—a beautiful bond formed through their love for one another—was retold by Françoise, emphasizing Jimmy's unwavering support until the very end.
Throughout the ceremony, attendees embraced one another, paying homage not just to Laborde, but also to the shared experience of loss and remembrance. Many wore red flowers pinned to their coats, symbolizing their grief, unity, and love for Catherine.
Concluding the service, the participants united one last time, applauding the life and legacy of Catherine Laborde as her light was carried from the church—a fitting tribute to the star who had brightened the days for millions across the nation. Following her wishes, her coffin was taken from the church, signifying her wishes for every remembrance to celebrate her life rather than mourn her absence.
The legacy of Catherine Laborde lives on, not only through the airwaves she brightened but also through the lives she touched, as friends and family continued to share memories of this treasured icon of French television.