Scottish LGBTQ+ Activist Liam Jones Passes Away

Tributes have poured in for "one in a million" LGBTQ+ activist Liam Jones who tragically passed away aged 29 on Monday. The Aberdeen-based volunteer, who had spent years as a trustee for LGBTQ+ organisation 4 Pillars, was "a real genuine person" who could make people "laugh with his dry sense of humour". He had been instrumental in supporting the community, and had campaigned tirelessly to bring the first Pride Parade to Aberdeen in 2018. 

His mother, Angie Jones, wrote on Facebook to announce the sad news: “Hiya Liam…I love you sooo much.

“To Liam’s friends… I’m his mum, he just always called me Angie Jones. Liam is not with us anymore, my baby passed away yesterday… I can’t say more than that to be honest.”

Liam had worked as a volunteer and trustee at 4 Pillars, a local LGBTQ+ organisation, since it's inception in 2016, going on to take the reins as Chairman only 3 years later. He stepped down in 2019 to explore different opportunities but nonetheless remained a stalwart in his community, and connected with the needs and interests of LGBTQ+ people in Aberdeen. 

Colleagues, friends, school peers, and family quickly rushed to remember with glowing praise the bright young man with a "heart of gold", sharing stories and memories. Writing on Facebook, Matthew Brougham said: “Sore hearts all around. Heart goes out to his family and closest folks. Always had a laugh with Liam when it came to shady humour, RIP.”

John Doran added: “Absolutely awful news. I’m so glad now that I took him up on his offer of a drink a few weeks ago when I was last in Aberdeen and we were able to have a nice chat – but can’t believe that will be the last time."

Kian Welsh said: “Absolutely devastated to wake up to this news this morning, couldn’t believe it after just having a conversation on Thursday with him and really didn’t want to believe it. Rest easy Liam.”

George Mackenzie said: “This is such a shame to read, heard the news this morning. Liam was always a happy character and will be remembered.”

David Mckenzie wrote: “He was a real genuine person this must be heartbreaking for his family, condolences to all.”

Mr Jones was a key part of his local community: the founder of 4 Pillars, Deejay Bullock, described him as "the glue that kept us together". 

“Not only was Liam a hard-working young guy he was a pleasure to be with, he knew how to connect with people and make them laugh with his quick wit and dry sense of humour."

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