Tributes are being paid to a “true servant of Christ” following the death of a Church of Scotland minister.
Rev George Cowie was clerk to the Presbytery of Glasgow and a Chaplain-in-Ordinary to Her Majesty the Queen.
He has been described as a “man of deep compassion, wisdom, integrity and humour”, and diligently served as a minister at South Holburn Church before taking up his role in the Presbytery of Glasgow.
He leaves behind his wife, Marian and children Graeme and Kay, as well as his grandson Logan.
His tragic death – at just 58-years-old – follows a long illness. He died peacefully on December 21.
The funeral will be held at New Kirkpatrick Parish church in Bearsden, near Glasgow, on January 12 at midday.
The Church of Scotland is encouraging people to watch the service online, and pay their respects to a man “who touched the lives of so many”.
Rev Dr Grant Barclay reflected on Mr Cowie’s role in the Presbytery of Glasgow, saying: "He had a wide experience of church life as a parish minister in Fife and then in Aberdeen and possessed a deep knowledge of Church law."
"Many ministers and staff members in congregations across the presbytery and beyond found George's principled commitment, genuine care and sense of humour immensely supportive and encouraging.
"Members of the presbytery office remember him as a committed clerk, a compassionate colleague and a man of great faith and integrity.
"George was everything we could have wanted in a boss – he was one of a kind and will be missed."
Rev Dr John Ferguson, a friend of Mr Cowie for 30 years, also shared a touching tribute, saying: "George was an outstanding parish minister who cared deeply for his people," said Dr Ferguson, who is now clerk to the Presbytery of Aberdeen and Shetland.
"He was a superb presbytery clerk and brought wisdom and clear thinking to the role.
"George had a very sharp mind, a brilliant sense of humour and he showed deep compassion to others in so many ways.
"He was a very good friend and I always knew that I could turn to him for sound advice and could rely on his strong support.
"The Church has lost a true servant of Christ and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this very sad time."