Father thanks Frome community for celebrating son’s life

The father of Graham Gillions has thanked the people of Frome for the overwhelming turnout at a celebration of life held at the town hall on 12th January.

Graham died on 3rd January at the Dorothy House Hospice, soon after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Following a small, private burial service, the council chamber in Frome Town Hall was filled to bursting with people who knew and loved Graham from many different chapters of his life, gathering to share memories, music, stories and reflections.

Graham was known for his work in climate justice and his dedication to animal welfare, particularly through Keyford Hedgehog Rescue.

Writing to express his gratitude, Graham’s father Steve said, “Graham loved Frome. He valued the inclusive spirit of the town and its diverse community where people from all walks of life come together and are celebrated.

“Graham was a kind, compassionate, principled person who touched many lives. Whilst his professional life was rooted in principles of climate justice, treating all people with respect and fairness and standing against oppression, what mattered as much to him was what he did outside of his paid work. He gave his time endlessly to community projects, Keyford Hedgehog Rescue and fostering dogs. He didn’t seek recognition, he simply saw what needed doing and did it. He would never have imagined the number of people who came to celebrate the part he played in their lives.

“He was a man of strong convictions but never a preacher. He was environmentally conscious in every choice he made and followed a simple principle: do no harm, be kind and tread lightly.

“Graham was great fun and the community of Frome allowed him to express this side of his personality. He loved humour and not taking himself too seriously, whether blogging or just making people laugh with his warm and clever wit, which was never at the expense of others.

“He lived by his values and changed lives simply by being who he was. He was very much his own person, lived with integrity and left the world a kinder place than he found it.

“Graham will be very sadly missed but remembered with love, respect and smiles.”

Pictured: Graham Gillions