Lorraine Kelly has shared a deeply emotional farewell to her father, John Kelly, as she said her final goodbye at his funeral — weeks after his sudden and tragic death shocked both her family and viewers across the UK.
The much-loved ITV presenter, 66, stepped away from her morning show last month after confirming that her dad had passed away following a devastating accident during freezing winter conditions.
John, 84, is understood to have been walking along an icy path in sub-zero temperatures in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, when he slipped and fell. Despite emergency services rushing to the scene, he could not be saved.
A quiet, dignified farewell
On Friday, Lorraine attended her father’s funeral — a day she later described as both “tough” and “sad”, but also filled with cherished memories.
Sharing a photo of the order of service on Instagram, Lorraine allowed fans a glimpse into the deeply personal goodbye. The front cover read: “Celebrating the life of John Petrie Kelly”, alongside a black-and-white photograph of John in his younger years, dressed smartly in a wedding suit with a buttonhole.
The service took place at South Lanarkshire Crematorium and focused not on loss alone, but on the passions that defined John’s life.
“We remembered everything he loved”
In a heartfelt message to her 591,000 followers, Lorraine wrote:
“We said goodbye to my dad on Friday. Thanks to everyone who came to celebrate his life.”
She went on to explain that the ceremony was intentionally simple and meaningful — centred on the things her father loved most.
“It was a simple, heartfelt service where we remembered his love of astronomy, exploration, science and Star Trek.”
Lorraine concluded:
“A tough day full of sadness but also good memories.”
An outpouring of love from ITV colleagues
Following her post, messages of support flooded in from viewers and colleagues alike. Several familiar ITV faces shared their condolences publicly.
Dr Amir Khan posted a red heart emoji and wrote: “Sending you all the love.”
Good Morning Britain weather presenter Laura Tobin added: “Sending love & lifelong wonderful memories.”
Stylist Mark Heyes shared: “Sending so much love to you all.”
Stand-in presenter Ranvir Singh summed it up simply: “What a legacy, Lorraine.”
The dad who shaped her curiosity
Lorraine first confirmed her father’s death on January 10, sharing a moving tribute that revealed just how influential he had been in her life.
“I am mourning the man who bought me a telescope when I was five years old, who watched the moon landings with me and taught me to always be curious and interested in everything,” she wrote.
