One-year-old Mia Macphee would have giggled with glee at the sight of a parade of Minis – the same as her own ride-on toy car – in the streets surrounding her Milnafua home at Alness.
On this occasion, however, the procession of her favourite cars formed part of the tot’s pink-themed funeral cortege as the community came out in force to pay their last respects to the 14-month-old who died following a tragic accident.
Gone too soon
The only daughter of Connor and Hannah Macphee, Mia passed away after becoming entangled in the straps of a handbag.
Her brave parents, who have two sons and another baby boy on the way, shared her story as a warning to other families.
Today, a celebration of her life took place at Inverness Crematorium following a procession from her Milnafua home, down Alness High Street and onto Inverness.
Hannah, wearing pink, Connor and their children, walked behind the hearse and piper. Mia’s tiny white coffin was placed next to flowers spelling out ‘daughter.’
Alness community turn out in support
Around 100 family and friends – also wearing pink – joined the grieving parents in front of the cortege. Behind them were several Minis – including a bright pink one resembling Mia’s own toy car – and a Range Rover.
Mini enthusiasts from the Alness area added pink ribbons to their cars and volunteered their time to create a fitting send off for the “bubbly, sassy wee girl” who was “taken far too soon”.
As they neared the end of the Milnafua estate a clutch of pale pink balloons were released into the blue skies above.
Neighbours poignantly stood quietly lining the streets, with bowed heads and standing in their gardens as Mia passed by.
Mia held for the last time
For the final stage of the journey to Inverness the family moved into the limousine. Mia’s parents then held their daughter’s coffin, on their laps.
“Every inch a daddy’s girl,” it was one final hug from Connor to his wee girl.
The Press and Journal were invited to capture this act of remembrance for Mia. Her parents are taking comfort in the fact that their toddler’s story may well save the lives of others.
“So many people have read the story and said how they’ve moved bags and things. At least people have seen the warning,” said Hannah. “We pray this never happens ever again, to any other family.”
- Mia Macphee: March 31 2022 – May 28 2023.
