Janey Godley, the beloved Scottish comedian, was honored in a vibrant and heartwarming funeral service in Glasgow, reflecting her colorful personality and comedic legacy. Among the mourners was former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who had developed a friendship with Godley during the pandemic. The service took place at St Mary’s Cathedral, where attendees donned bright, colorful outfits as per Godley’s request. This gesture set the tone for a celebration of her life, which was marked by laughter, joy, and a fond remembrance of her iconic catchphrase, “Frank, get the door.”
Tragically, Godley passed away at the age of 63 following a battle with ovarian cancer. She had begun her comedy career as a landlady in Glasgow’s east end before rising to international prominence, particularly noted for her viral parodies of Sturgeon’s COVID-19 briefings. These comedic skits not only lightened the mood during dark times but also resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing Godley’s wit and social commentary. Her humorous take on life, especially during the pandemic, revealed her skill in blending humor with poignant truths that motivated and entertained many during lockdown.
During the funeral, Godley’s daughter, Ashley Storrie, a comedian and radio presenter herself, shared emotional reflections, noting how her mother felt a deep connection to Glasgow, stating, “It was her favourite place in the whole wide world.” Storrie recounted the emblematic elements of Glasgow, such as “the tree that never grew,” which she believed inspired her mother to defy limitations and thrive in her own unique way. Storrie’s heartfelt tribute communicated the essence of a woman determined to rise above challenges, ultimately using humor as her voice, something that the audience celebrated with both tears and laughter during the service.
The service also drew hundreds to the streets of Edinburgh for Godley’s “final tour,” adding to the atmosphere of love and admiration surrounding her legacy. Coincidentally, the funeral coincided with a memorial service for former First Minister Alex Salmond, adding a layer of poignancy to the day. Sturgeon, reflecting on Godley’s impact, recalled how the service captured “Janey perfectly,” emphasizing both the heartache of loss and the joy that Godley brought into people’s lives. Her presence was described as irreplaceable, and her ability to induce laughter, even in somber moments, was a fitting homage to the woman remembered for her unmatched comic spirit.
The celebration culminated with a recording of Godley’s catchphrase, which played as a part of the closing remarks rather than merely a formality. This phrase, a hallmark of her personality, graced the end of her parody skits and even her 2020 book’s title, symbolizing not just a laugh but the connection she had built with her audience over the years. It felt as if she were directly engaging with her mourners one last time, leaving them with a lasting impression of her humor and warmth.
Among the notable attendees at the service was Gavin Mitchell, famous for his role as Bobby the Barman on BBC Scotland’s humorous sitcom “Still Game.” The gathering witnessed a blend of familiar faces, showcasing the respect and admiration the comedy community held for Godley. At the service, the vicar delivered kind remarks about her influence, summarizing the profound impact her comedic narratives had on countless lives throughout challenging times.
Janey Godley not only succeeded in her craft but did so by embodying the spirit of Glasgow while advocating for humor’s power to uplift. Her poignant funeral celebrated not just her life but the artistry of comedy that brought joy to others, underpinned by the idea that laughter could prevail even in the face of loss. As friends, family, and fellow comedians gathered in recognition of her legacy, it became clear that her impact would resonate for years to come, providing solace and entertainment to a world that can often seem heavy.
