Jeane Freeman Remembered for Lifelong Dedication to Care and Public Service
A profound sense of care and concern for others formed the very core of Jeane Freeman's existence, according to tributes delivered at a moving thanksgiving service held in her memory. The former Scottish health secretary, who passed away on February 7 at the age of 72, was honoured by more than 400 attendees from across the political spectrum, the arts, and the health service at the University of Glasgow.
A Sudden Diagnosis and a Life Cut Short
Ms Freeman's death came just 25 days after she received a cancer diagnosis in January, a tragic turn that prevented a planned holiday of a lifetime to Vietnam and Cambodia with her partner, Susan Stewart. In her address, Ms Stewart reflected on the suddenness of the loss, urging others to cherish their loved ones and pursue their dreams without delay. "Don't put them off because you really never know what the next day will bring," she poignantly advised the gathered mourners.
Political Legacy of Compassion and Reform
Friend and former MSP Mike Russell delivered a heartfelt eulogy, describing Ms Freeman's approach to politics as a vehicle for positive, personal, and communal change. He emphasised her instrumental role in establishing a new social security system for Scotland and her diligent stewardship of the National Health Service throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Her career trajectory was remarkable: beginning as a nurse, she later served as a senior civil servant with the establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, became a special adviser to First Minister Jack McConnell, and after joining the SNP, was elected as MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley in 2016.
A Gathering of Prominent Figures
The service attracted a diverse array of notable figures, underscoring the wide respect Ms Freeman commanded. Attendees included Scotland's First Minister John Swinney, former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, deputy leader Jackie Bailie, acclaimed writers Val McDermid and Andrew O'Hagan, and Deacon Blue lead singer Ricky Ross. This cross-party and cross-sector attendance highlighted her impact beyond mere political affiliations.
Personal Tributes and Lasting Inspiration
Personal reflections painted a picture of a woman deeply rooted in socialist and feminist principles from her youth. Her niece, Louise Howe, read a specially composed poem titled "Poem For Aunt Jeane," celebrating her aunt's enduring kindness. Mr Russell concluded his tribute with a call to action, urging that her memory serve as "an inspiration to kindness and fairness and to the elimination of discrimination as Jeane always wanted."
Following a private cremation, the thanksgiving service was led by The Very Reverend Dr Lorna Hood. Ms Freeman's later years included a part-time role at the University of Glasgow as Dean of Strategic Community Engagement and Economic Development, a position she took up in 2022, continuing her commitment to public service until the very end.
