Ballymore Parish Church was packed to capacity on Sunday 4th December for a special Charity Carol Service in loving memory of Alison Williamson.
Poyntzpass Silver Band was joined by Tandragee Primary School Choir and the Parish Choir for what was a very poignant and moving occasion.
Alison, who died earlier this year after a long and courageous battle with blood cancer, was a dearly loved wife, mother and friend, a member of Ballymore and a classroom assistant in the Primary School. During the Service one of the Lessons was read by Mya Williamson (12), Alison’s daughter.
The Rector, Canon Shane Forster, in his sermon talked about Alison’s life, love and legacy. He said, “Those of us who knew Alison and loved her have shed many tears in these last six and a half months for we miss her terribly and yet when we remember her and the character that she was, we cannot but smile. She was an exceptional and truly gifted human being. She had great faith and determination and inspired people with her warmth and kindness. She was always thinking of others.” Canon Forster went on to say that Alison has left an amazing legacy. “I see Alison in her children, in Mya and Rhys, also in her husband Barry who is a truly remarkable individual. Despite his own personal deep sorrow and pain, he has remained strong for the children and has drawn on Alison’s strength and courage.
With the help, support and encouragement of his family and friends, church, school and wider community, he has raised a phenomenal amount of money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI through different fund raising events but particularly by his 4 peaks challenge. With his two brothers, cousin and six friends, the highest mountains in the UK were conquered in 48 hours! Tens of thousands of pounds, have now been raised in memory of Alison, which will make a massive contribution towards funding research into the causes of blood cancers and better treatments for them. Hopefully one day that research will also bring about a cure for the disease as well. So by Barry’s endeavours Alison is still making a difference in the world and in the lives of other people and will continue to do so for many, many years to come.”
The collection during the Service which was for Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI came to £1,500.
At a reception in the Parish Hall following the Service all the money raised in memory of Alison in the last six months was presented by Barry to representatives of the charity – a grand total of £52,115-07. An amazing tribute to an inspirational young woman.