In collaboration with the family, our Flower Guild created a wonderful display of flowers and artwork for a fond farewell of a valued member of our church community. Gordon Coates.
In the words of an attendee, it was privilege to attend such an uplifting service, with lots of memories to make us smile.He requested bright colours for his funeral and we did that and also congregation wore bright colours.
This portrait was painted by Phil Hughes, a member of the Saddleworth Group of Artists’ and treasured mentor to the Parish Centre Art Group (PCAG). Gordon’s favourite jacket is placed around the chair.A tall floor standing flower arrangement, sits beside a self portrait initials GWAC. Gordon an avid amateur artist and member of the PCAG. The flowers were collected from the gardens of our congregation. Members selecting their favourite and brightest of flowers. This Oasis arrangement makes use of a donated stand, which is often used at weddings and funerals. Glass cones sit at the end of the Choir pews, a added feature to the display.A keen artist the framer captures a treasured item, the cricket hat belonging to Gordon, a county cricket player in his youth. The flowers sit in an oasis bowl.A small vase, holds a selection of flowers, sitting next a framed picture of Gordon and his wife. Gordon’s cheerfulness and humour reflected with the cricket ball character, appearing during the preparations. This arrangement placed within the North Porch, stunningly put together with purchased and donated flowers. Spectacular!
Historic Saddleworth Church 