Mourners at the funeral of east Belfast murder victim Rachel Simpson have heard how she had a “heart of gold” and her love for her three children “remains eternal”.
A service of thanksgiving was held on Wednesday at a packed Orangefield Presbyterian Church for the 43-year-old mother-of-three, whose body was found in a garage at her Castlereagh Road home on September 13.
Her son, 21-year-old Nathan Simpson, has appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court charged with her murder.
As Wednesday’s service took place, Rachel’s mother Jill Simpson issued a short statement on behalf of the family.
“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of sympathy and support from across the community,” she said.
“The tragedy that befell our family was devastating.
“In Rachel, we have lost a loving and devoted mother and daughter. However, given the circumstances, the loss is much wider and much more profound. There will be more to say in the time ahead, but as we lay Rachel to rest, we respectfully ask for privacy and space.”
Welcoming mourners, which included East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson, Reverend Gareth MacLean thanked the community for the “love and compassion over the last days for Rachel’s whole family as they find themselves walking through the most unimaginable pain”.
Many in attendance wore leopard skin print colours in tribute to Rachel’s fondness for the design.
“They feel your prayers and they value your love,” Rev Maclean added of Rachel’s family, prompting laughter when he added: “I had nothing leopard print in my wardrobe to wear.”
Rachel’s sister Cher spoke warmly of her sibling, who she said was “full of beans, funny faces, and warm embraces”, describing her as “a prankster who loved practical jokes”.
“She was the crazy one. She was the cool kid in school. People wanted to be around her,” she said, adding that her sister was a “hard worker” who had started two successful businesses.
“Rachel was a trusted sister, and most definitely the one you did not mess with.
“Rachel was selfless, and had a true heart of gold. Her kindness knew no limit.”
Cher added: “Rachel was a cherished mother of three much-loved children. This love remains eternal.”
Reverend Karen Hunter Kriwald also led prayers, and spoke of her own personal friendship with Rachel.
Describing a recent phone call between them just weeks ago, she said: “We talked for over an hour, laughing and crying together about the twists and turns of her life. I’m so grateful for that recent conversation.”
The service concluded with ABBA’s Super Trouper, as mourners left the church ahead of a private cremation.
