Doddie Weir: Kathy shows her appreciation for the support since her husband’s passing as hundreds attend memorial service
Doddie Weir's wife Kathy and their sons Hamish (left), Angus (centre) and Ben leaving Melrose Parish Church after a memorial service for Doddie Weir in Melrose, Scotland. Doddie Weir died aged 52 on the 26th November after suffering from motor neurone disease. Issue date: Monday December 19, 2022.
Doddie Weir’s wife, Kathy, showed her appreciation for the “overwhelming” support the family has received since the passing of one of rugby’s great characters.
A large group of people from the rugby union fraternity have gathered at Melrose Parish Church, nearby Weir’s old club Borders town’s rugby club, where the legend won three Scottish titles.
Thankful
Weir’s wife spoke on behalf of her family and thanked all those who made an effort to show their respects to the former second-row.
“We would like to thank everyone who has been so incredibly supportive over the last two weeks,” Kathy Weir said.
“As a family, we have been overwhelmed by the many messages we have received from all over the world. They have brought great comfort to me and the boys.
“We really appreciate people taking the time to share their own memories of Doddie and letting us know we are in their thoughts.
“The Memorial Service will give those attending a chance to pay their respects and come together in Doddie’s name.
“We understand not everyone will be able to make it, particularly given the time of year, but we know you’re all thinking of us.”
A former teammate of Weir in Scotland and Melrose teams, Carl Hogg, read the eulogy with a colleague John Jeffrey also speaking.
“Doddie had an amazing life, it was action-packed, full of fun, lots of adventure and lots of love,” said Hogg.
“It’s been very emotional reading all the tributes and his campaigning for MND. Yet that’s only six years of an incredible life. As well all know, motor neurone disease didn’t define Doddie. It was just the last chapter and challenge he faced.
“He never questioned why but instead felt the responsibility to make a difference. He considered himself fortunate to have the love and support of his family friends. He used to say: ‘What about Mrs Smith in the tenement flat who isn’t as lucky as me?'”
Proceedings
After that, Weir’s three sons read a poem written by Tommy Douglas entitled Requiem for Doddie (The Mad Giraffe).
Several high-profile attendees included former Scotland stars Rob Wainwright, Gavin Hastings, Kenny Logan, Kelly Brown, Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend, Sir Ian McGeechan and Frank Hadden.
Former England players Bill Beaumont, Martin Johnson and Rob Andrew all attended as well as cyclist Sir Chris Hoy.
Weir was a legend of the game and passed on last month aged 52 after a six-year battle with Motor Neurone disease.