Ian Johnston Funeral Directors

19/02/2026

A beautiful service was held on Tuesday, at Hayfield Cemetery for a special and very much loved man, Mr James McDonald, or Jimmy as he was fondly known.

On a cold but sunny day, Jimmy’s loving family gathered outside his home as he returned there one last time. Shortly thereafter, they walked the short distance with him to the cemetery, where he was joined by more of his family and friends, all there to pay their respects and express their love for him. As the congregation gathered at the graveside, ‘It Started with a Kiss’ by Hot Chocolate, played through the speakers. Mr Denis Madden conducted the service and delivered a very heartfelt eulogy, that summed up Jimmy to a tee. There were some tears but also some smiles and laughter as they listened to fond memories of Jimmy’s life. The congregation then had time to reflect on their own special memories as they listened to the theme tune from ‘Noddy’, a tune that had a special meaning to Jimmy and the family! Denis then handed over to the Funeral Director, who called out the names of Jimmy’s loved ones who would have the honour of lowering him into his final resting place. Afterwards, many of his friends and family took this moment to each place a single rose in beside him. 'You Should be Dancing' by The Bee Gees played as the service came to a close. There was an opportunity to donate to Kirkcaldy District Nurses and Marie Curie on leaving and a generous sum of £200 was raised.

Brenda and the family would like to say thank you to all relatives and friends who attended Jimmy’s service, for all the love and kind words in all messages received, and for all the cards and flowers. It brought them great comfort at such a difficult time.

"Rest in peace now Jimmy, your work on this earth is done, rest in the hearts and minds of all who will love you forever"

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

18/02/2026

A beautiful service was held on Thursday 12th February, at Kirkcaldy Crematorium to honour a very special and much loved lady, Mrs Evelyn Ledger, fondly known as ‘Eve’.

Eve’s loving family gathered outside her home awaiting her arrival, before following her on her final journey to the crematorium. ‘If I Can Dream’ by Elvis played, as a large and loving congregation of family and friends gathered, a testament to just how deeply well thought of this lovely lady was. ‘I Have a Dream’ by Abba played softly in the background, as Eve was then brought into the chapel with great dignity and respect. The service was conducted by Mrs Jem Mathewson, who spoke beautifully and delivered a heartfelt eulogy which gave a lovely insight into Eve’s well lived life. There were moments of sadness, but also warm smiles at the stories and memories shared. It was clear that Eve was dearly loved by all who knew her. The congregation were then invited to pause and reflect on their own cherished memories while listening to ‘How Great Thou Art’ by Elvis. As the music played, a touching slideshow of treasured photographs appeared on the screens, capturing happy moments from throughout her life. The service concluded with ‘Three Little Birds’ by Bob Marley, which played as the congregation left the chapel. As they did, there was an opportunity to donate to Cancer Research UK, and contributions were given generously.

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to all relatives and friends who attended Eve’s service, and for the many kind words, messages, cards, and flowers they have received. Your love and support have brought them great comfort at this very difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Eve. Your work on this earth is done. Rest in the hearts and minds of all who will go on loving you forever.”

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk 🌈

18/02/2026

We’ve noticed more families asking about direct cremation lately, so we wanted to share a few thoughts from us.

Direct cremation is often seen as the simplest option, and sometimes people worry that it means giving up the chance to say a proper goodbye. But that isn’t really the case. It simply means the cremation itself takes place without a formal service. Everything meaningful around it can still be shaped in a way that feels right for you.

Across the UK, cremation is now chosen for the majority of funerals, and direct cremation has become more common over recent years. For many families, it’s about flexibility, personal preference, or managing costs, and every reason is valid.

What we often talk through with families is what else can be done around that choice. Some people spend time with their loved one beforehand for a quiet farewell. Others arrange a memorial or celebration of life later, when everyone can gather without time pressure. That might be in a chapel, a function room, a garden, or somewhere that meant something special to the person who has died.

There are lots of personal touches too, music, readings, photos, choosing how ashes are returned, or marking the day privately with close family. There’s no 'one' way to do things, and no expectations, just what feels right.

Whether it’s a simple cremation with added personal touches or a memorial gathering afterwards, we believe families shouldn’t have to sacrifice care for cost, or feel bewildered by a lack of a “proper goodbye”. Our trusted local experience means we can guide, support, and adapt, offering a level of personal understanding that larger national providers simply can’t replicate.

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

13/02/2026

Please share on behalf of the family.

It is with great sadness that the family are announcing the passing away of a very special, and a very much loved man, Mr Graeme Duncan.

Peacefully, after an illness bravely borne at the Victoria Hospice, on Tuesday, 10th February, 2026, aged 61 years. Graeme was the cherished son of James and the late Isabella, the beloved and devoted husband to Moira, a much loved dad to Iain and Craig, a loving father-in-law to Melanie, an adored brother to Stuart, a caring brother-in-law to Caroline and a loved uncle to Lauren and Kyle, also a good friend to so many. Graeme will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Funeral service to be held on Friday, 27th February, at 1.30 p.m., at Kirkcaldy Crematorium, to which all family and friends are respectfully invited. Family flowers only please, but a donation may be made in memory of Graeme to the Victoria Hospice.

The family would also like to invite you all back to the Dean Park Hotel, after the service for light refreshments, and to share stories and fond memories of Graeme.

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

11/02/2026

A beautiful service was held on Wednesday, 4th February, at Kirkcaldy Crematorium to honour a much-loved man, Mr. Thomas Annan, known affectionately to most as Tom or Tam.

Tom’s devoted family gathered at his home, awaiting his arrival before accompanying him on his final journey. At the crematorium, he was welcomed by a large and loving congregation of family and friends, a moving testament to how deeply he was cherished. The chapel quickly filled, with some guests standing in the foyer as “Time” by Pink Floyd played softly in the background. Tom was then led into the crematorium by his forever-loving son, Paul, who played the snare drum down the aisle. He was brought in a striking matt black coffin, and Paul’s performance was flawless, concluding with the touching gesture of placing his father’s drumsticks on the coffin, a profoundly moving moment that resonated with everyone present. The service was led by Denis Madden, who delivered a heartfelt eulogy that beautifully captured the essence of Tom’s life. Although the day carried a gentle sadness, it was equally filled with warmth, quiet smiles, and the laughter of shared memories. Tom’s love of music shone throughout, his remarkable talent as a drummer evident in the many bands he had played with over the years. During a quiet moment of reflection, “Music” by John Miles played, allowing everyone to gather their thoughts and remember Tom in their own way. Throughout the service, a slideshow of photographs was displayed, capturing Tom at his happiest, with the people and drum kits he loved most. Denis then gently spoke the words of committal as loved ones offered their final whispered goodbyes. The service concluded with “Breathe” by Pink Floyd playing once more. Donations were collected in aid of Ward 22 and the Victoria Hospice, who cared for Tom so well, and a generous sum was raised in his memory. Tom’s floral tributes were stunning, all reflecting a black-and-white theme. Among them was a striking bouquet with a ribbon bearing one of his quotes: “I worked hard to get this wrecked,” alongside “Dad” letters and, of course, a snare drum.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all relatives, friends, and colleagues who attended Tom’s service, and for the kind words, messages, cards, and flowers received. Your support has brought great comfort during this difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Tom. Your work on this earth is done. Rest now in the hearts and minds of all who will love you forever.”

www.ianohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

06/02/2026

Please share on behalf of the family.

It is with great sadness that the family are announcing the passing of a very special and much loved lady, Mrs Janet O’Donnell, known to everyone as Auntie Janet.

Janet fell into eternal sleep at her family home in Kirkcaldy, on Tuesday, 3rd February, 2026, aged 68 years. She was the much loved mum to Sean and Kelly, an adored gran to Bradley and Denholm, a cherished auntie to Steven, Vicki, Karen, Colin, Leanne, Leon, Kayleigh, Jemma, Gary, Jack, Robbie, Jay, Megan, Aimiee, Leia, Jaydanna, Rachael and Shannan, also a loving great auntie to Chase, Scarlett-leigh, John- Manson, Jazmine, Jaycob, Mercedes, Rome, Remi and Hope, and a very good friend to many. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

A Private Funeral Service will be held at Janet's request.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all who have sent cards, flowers, and thoughtful gifts. Your kindness has been deeply appreciated and has brought the family great comfort during this difficult time.

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

06/02/2026

Proud to be sponsoring another local team!

The Pinpoint Kirkcaldy Kestrels 🤝Ian Johnston Funeral Directors

We are very proud to be the new helmet sponsor for the Kirkcaldy Kestrels!

Our relationship continues to grow with the Kestrels, they support us, and we’re delighted to support them.

Wishing the team all the very best for the season ❤

Sponsorship Highlight

The Kirkcaldy Kestrels are proud to announce Ian Johnston Funeral Directors as an official helmet sponsor for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, continuing through the 2026/27 season.

When asked why they chose to sponsor the club, they said:
As a small independent business rooted in this community, Ally and Christiane believe strongly in giving back to the families who place their trust in them.
Supporting the Kestrels reflects our commitment to local sport, local pride, and the wellbeing of the town we serve. The families who support us are the same families who fill the stands, volunteer behind the scenes, and keep local sport alive. Sponsoring the team is our way of saying thank you and helping ensure that the clubs at the heart of our town continue to thrive.’
We are honoured to stand behind the team this season and wish them every success!

02/02/2026

A beautiful and uplifting service was held on Friday, 23rd January, at Kirkcaldy Crematorium, to honour a very special and much loved lady, Mrs Gail Ellis.

Gail’s devoted family gathered outside her home, awaiting her arrival one last time, before following her on her final journey to the crematorium. There, a large and loving congregation of family and friends gathered, a testament to just how deeply well thought of this lovely lady was. ‘Simply the Best’ by Tina Turner played in the background, as Gail was carried into the chapel with great dignity and respect by her loved ones. The service was conducted by Miss Tamsin Frost, who spoke beautifully and delivered a heartfelt eulogy which gave a lovely insight into Gail’s well lived life. There were moments of sadness, but also plenty of smiles and laughter at the stories and memories shared. Gail would’ve wanted that so much, she firmly believed that during tough times, laughter was the only way to get through. It was clear that Gail was very dearly loved by all who knew her. The congregation were then invited to pause and reflect on their own cherished memories while listening to ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams. As the music played, a touching slideshow of treasured photographs appeared on the screens, capturing happy moments from throughout her life. The service concluded with ‘Bat Out of Hell’ by Meatloaf, which played as the congregation left the chapel, and raised quite a few giggles along the way. There was an opportunity to donate to Cancer Research UK after the service, and a staggering £1705.03 has been raised up until now including gift aid, on and offline. Anyone still wishing to donate in Gail’s memory can do so by following this link –

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.justgiving.com%2Fpage%2Fgail-ellis%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwWmdiOW9pbFpPZGoxclJOVnNydGMGYXBwX2lkDzUxNDc3MTU2OTIyODA2MQABHiMu764_CnKvlCvcr8pGfCdkEOhDgfQE7GVQRYDye4ETCgUF_FXlzmirwqNv_aem_iwg8r5z3QZ0f4WmK3ggC_A&h=AT3hIiExowqEXBmjttTNn5ntRdsVMlSCcpEwxWh2aqjL2IPf7vr2AGWAPX8KrZPFpaaudQMSHybZ29RQUI2hYy7R2_4S9YsINIgioC7oyBSllRNiZf-U1sRB9_6UAAqmcgTO79MzQw_1FImlSDwH4g

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to all relatives and friends who attended Gail’s service, and for the many kind words and messages received. Your love and support have brought them great comfort at this very difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Gail. Your work on this earth is done. Rest in the hearts and minds of all who will go on loving you forever.”

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

30/01/2026

Please share on behalf of the family.

It is with great sadness that the family are announcing the passing of a very special and much loved lady, Mrs Evelyn Ledger, known fondly to many as ‘Eve’.

Eve fell into eternal sleep at the Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy, on Friday, 23rd January, 2026, aged 88 years. She was the cherished and devoted wife of the late Bert, a beloved mum to Christine, Stephen, David and the late Yvonne and Suzanne, a loving nana and great nana, a dear sister, sister in law and a very good friend to many. Eve will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, 12th February, at 2.15 p.m., at Kirkcaldy Crematorium, to which all family and friends are respectfully invited. Family flowers only please, but donations may be made in memory of Eve, to Cancer Research, if so desired.

The family would also like to invite you all back to Dunnikier Golf Club, Kirkcaldy, after the service for light refreshments, and to share stories and fond memories of Eve. 🌈

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

29/01/2026

Please share on behalf of the family.

It is with great sadness and very heavy hearts, the family are announcing the passing of a very much-loved man, Mr James McDonald, known fondly as ‘Jimmy’.

Jimmy fell peacefully into eternal sleep, at his home in Kirkcaldy, on Sunday, 25th January, 2026, aged 76 years. He was the cherished and devoted partner of Brenda, a beloved dad of Lisa, Patricia, Dawn and Darren, a proud grandad of Reece, Aedan, Iain, Ben, Harry, Joey and Porsha, a loving great grandad of Oceiana, a much loved brother of Mary, Mabel, Chick, and the late Jock, George, Eck and Nettie, a dear father in law, uncle, and a very good friend to many. Jimmy will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, 17th February, at 10.30 a.m., at Hayfield Cemetery, to which all family and friends are respectfully invited.

Donations may be made in memory of Jimmy to the Kirkcaldy District Nurses & Marie Curie, if so desired.

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

29/01/2026

A beautiful service was held last Thursday, at Kirkcaldy Crematorium in honour of a very special and much loved man, Mr Peter Murray Roberston or ‘Murray’, as he was fondly known.

Murray made his final journey along the crematorium driveway, awaiting the arrival of his loving family. He was met there by a large congregation of family and friends, a true testament to how very well thought of he was to all who knew him. ‘Theme from a Summer Place’ by James Last and his Orchestra played softly in the background, as Murray was brought into the chapel with great dignity and respect by his loved ones. The service was conducted by Mr Denis Madden, who spoke beautifully and delivered a heartfelt eulogy which gave a lovely insight into Murray’s well lived life. There were moments of sadness, but also warm smiles at the stories and memories shared. It was clear that Murray was very dearly loved. The congregation were then invited to pause and reflect on their own cherished memories while listening to ‘Amazing Grace’ by Andre Rieu, His Johann Strauss Orchestra & The Coriovallum Pipe Band. As Denis spoke his gentle words of committal, ‘Danny Boy’ by Daniel O Donnell could be heard playing softly in the background. The service concluded with ‘Mist Covered Mountains’ by The Pipes & Drums 1st Battalion, which played as the congregation left the chapel. There was an opportunity to donate to Glenburnie Care Home, Leven, and contributions were given generously. Murray’s floral tribute was a stunning Scottish themed double ended spray, which was bursting with red, white and purple flowers and thistles.

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to all relatives and friends who attended Murray’s service, and for the many kind words, messages, cards, and flowers they have received. Your love and support have brought them great comfort at this very difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Murray. Your work on this earth is done. Rest in the hearts and minds of all who will keep on loving you forever.”

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk

26/01/2026

A beautiful service was held on Monday 12th January at Kirkcaldy Crematorium to honour a very special and much-loved lady, Mrs Janet Roseweir.

Janet’s devoted family gathered outside their home to await her arrival, before following her on her final journey to the crematorium. “Que Sera Sera” by Doris Day played as a large and loving congregation of family and friends gathered, a true testament to how deeply loved and respected this lovely lady was.
“They Shall Come From the East” from the Salvation Army Hymnary then began to play as Janet was brought into the chapel by her nearest and dearest, with the congregation singing along. The service was conducted by Mr Denis Madden, who warmly welcomed everyone and invited them to celebrate the life of this wonderful lady. There were moments of sadness, but also many warm smiles as stories and memories were shared. It was clear that Janet was dearly loved by all who knew her. Denis then invited a great friend of Janet’s, Conrad Sutherland, to approach the pulpit to share part of Janet’s eulogy. He did exceptionally well, and Janet would no doubt have been deeply thankful for his heartfelt contribution. The congregation was then invited to pause and reflect on their own cherished memories while listening to “Wild Horses” by Susan Boyle. As the music played, a touching slideshow of treasured photographs appeared on the screens, capturing many happy moments from throughout Janet’s life. As the service drew to a close, Denis invited everyone to look to the screens once more to watch a beautiful family video of Janet dancing and smiling, a deeply moving and emotional moment for all present. The service concluded with “Dancing Queen” by ABBA, which played as the congregation left the chapel. As they did, there was an opportunity to donate to the Salvation Army and Forget-Me-Notes, which many generously supported.

The family would like to express their deepest thanks to all relatives and friends who attended Janet’s service, and for the many kind words, messages, cards, and flowers they have received. Your love and support have brought them great comfort during this very difficult time.

“Rest in peace, Janet. Your work on this earth is done. Rest in the hearts and minds of all who will go on loving you forever.”

www.ianjohnstonfuneraldirectors.co.uk