A HUSH fell over Newent as hundreds of mourners said goodbye to Lynne Downing yesterday.
The beloved grandmother passed away on November 7, aged 55, after a battle with ovarian cancer.
Traffic came to a standstill as her funeral procession made its way down the High Street just after noon.
Family and friends followed behind wearing black and red and some shops were closed as a mark of respect.
The bells tolled at St Mary's Church as the coffin was carried in to the sound of I Will Always Love You by Dolly Parton.
Inside the church it was standing room only and Reverend Simon Mason said it was a sight Newent had "never seen and probably never would again".
More than 270 cards of condolence have been sent to Lynne's family and daughter Rachael Hutchins spoke of her love of gossip and knitting.
She said her mum had died in husband Trevor's arms, surrounded by her family as she wanted.
Granddaughter Summer read Do not stand at my grave and weep but many could not help but shed a tear.
Rev Mason said Lynne was a woman who made "everyone family" and said Newent had "lost a friend".
Lynne lived with Trevor in Watery Lane, in the same house where she was born on August 6, 1957.
She also give birth there to daughters, Marie Downing, 36 and Rachael, now 30.
Rev Mason said the home was well known as having a "revolving door" with all welcome.
Lynne's younger sister Susie, who died 18 months ago, was also remembered at the service.
Psalm 23 The Lord's My Shepherd was both read and sung and Rupert Abbott, from Glebe Chapel, spoke of Lynne walking through 'the valley of the shadow of death' with courage.
Amazing Grace and Abide with Me were also sung and Eric Clapton's You Look Wonderful Tonight was played at the request of Trevor.
Lynne's coffin was carried out to C'mon Everybody by Eddie Cochran.
A private internment was held at Newent Cemetery. Donations were made to Newent District Nurses.
