Family, friends, and fans gathered Saturday at St Paul's Church in Blackpool to bid farewell to the beloved singer Linda Nolan, who was laid to rest at the age of 65. Nolans’ pink sparkly coffin was the centerpiece of the emotional service, reflecting her vibrant personality and love for life.
Linda, who passed away on January 15, 2025, due to complications from double pneumonia after struggling with secondary breast cancer, was celebrated for her infectious humor and spirit. The service began with Faith Hill's emotional song, 'There You’ll Be', symbolizing her enduring love for her late husband Brian Hudson, with whom she married at the same church.
Her sisters Anne, Maureen, Coleen, and Denise, alongside family members clad in black and adorned with pink accents, escorted her coffin, topped with colorful flowers. Denise Nolan-Anderson delivered a heartfelt eulogy, stating, 'She would have loved all the fuss today,' encapsulating the joy and charm Linda brought to everyone she knew.
Among the mourners were celebrities like Shane Richie, comedian Paul Elliott, and singer Lisa Maffia, who shared their fond memories of Linda. Elliott described her as 'a fun, bubbly person,’ noting, 'The world’s a darker place without her.'
The family emphasized Linda's passion for life and her significant contributions to cancer awareness. She was known for her resilience, having raised over £20 million for various charities, including Breast Cancer Now and the Irish Cancer Society. Denise remarked, 'Not Linda, instead she chose to help raise millions for cancer research.' This courage was evident not just through her fundraising efforts, but also through her graceful handling of her own battles with illness.
Throughout the service, moments of laughter complemented the sorrow as stories of Linda’s life were shared, from her early days with The Nolans to her appearances on 'Celebrity Big Brother'. One highlight was when Denise reminisced about how Linda embraced her nickname 'Auntie Ginda' because of her fondness for gin, reinforcing the lighthearted spirit of the celebration.
The attendees signed condolence books set up outside the church, with many expressing their admiration for the singer whose legacy transcends her musical career. Charlotte Dawson, daughter of comedian Les Dawson, alongside other family and friends, participated warmly, bringing cups of tea to fans standing outside, showcasing the love and community support surrounding Linda's life.
Linda's coffin was draped beautifully, emphasizing the showbiz flair she cherished. Her sisters, especially Coleen, took care to honor her wishes, stating, 'Her coffin is pure showbiz – bright pink and sparkly,' indicating how they intertwined Linda's fun-loving personality with solemn respect during the ceremony.
The service concluded with poignant memories of Linda's musical talents, including performances of her own songs and tunes she adored. Denise playfully led the crowd to sing along with Frank Sinatra’s humorous classic, 'Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone,' sparking laughter and tears alike among the attendees.
Linda had originally planned her funeral, specifying many details including the music and the pink coffin, to ease the burden on her family during their grief. This foresight allowed her sisters to reflect on her spirit even amid their mourning, leaving them with stories rich with laughter and memories of love.
Linda's passing marks the end of not just her life, but of what she represented: resilience, joy, and compassion. Her sisters pledged to continue her legacy, including raising funds for Trinity Hospice, to whom they have requested donations be sent instead of flowers. 'It feels right to continue her efforts,' they noted.
Through their heartfelt tributes and shared stories, attendees discovered the depth of Linda Nolan's impact on their lives, celebrating not only her legacy as an entertainer but also as a beloved sister and friend whose light will forever shine bright.
Linda’s legacy is one echoed by laughter, love, and unwavering spirit, and as friends and family left the church on Saturday, they carried with them the warmth of her memory and the importance of continuing to shine bright, just as she did.