Tributes flood in for ‘forever-loved’ Tain teenager Liam Cowie (17)
HEARTFELT tributes have been shared following the death of a 17-year-old former Tain Royal Academy pupil, described as a “quiet and gentle young man” who will be “sorely missed and forever loved”.
Liam James Sutherland Cowie, who died at home on April 15, has been described as a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law, grandson, nephew and uncle.
His former school, Tain Royal Academy, was amongst hundreds paying tribute. It said: “It is with great sadness, with the permission of Liam’s family, that we share the news of the passing of Liam Cowie, one of our former pupils.
“Liam was a quiet and gentle young man and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Liam’s family, friends and everyone affected by this loss.
“Support is available online via Kooth and Mikeysline, and in-person when school reopens for any pupils or staff who may need it during this difficult time.”
Announcing Liam’s passing, his father William Cowie said: “It is with the greatest sadness that we share the devastating news of the passing of our beloved son, Liam.
“We have been overwhelmed with the kindness and thoughtfulness of all our family, friends and our local community and express our sincere thanks to all at this most difficult of times.
“We also recognise that there are people who may be affected by Liam’s death and actively encourage contact with appropriate support groups including Mikeysline and James Support Group.”
The funeral notice reads: “Liam James Sutherland Cowie sadly passed away at home, on Tuesday 15th April 2025, aged 17 years. Beloved son of William and Linda, dearly loved brother of Susannah, Lewis and Tiana and brother-in-law of Dean and Steph, cherished grandson, nephew and uncle. He will be sorely missed and forever loved by all of his family and friends.”
Liam’s funeral is to be held at Tain Free Church on April 28 at 10am, thereafter to Clachan Cemetery by Loch Broom for 12.45pm.
All friends are respectfully invited to both the service and interment. Family flowers only, but a donation, if desired, can be made at the service for a charity of the family’s choice.
If you are unable to attend the service, a live stream will be available online at mairiurquhartandson.com
Hundreds of people known to Liam took to social media to share their tributes to the Easter Ross boy.
Culloden Community Council said: “We are so saddened to share the news of a loss of young life. Many in the community will remember Liam from his time in Balloch Primary School, where he was a such a caring and happy child with lots of friends.
“There will be many teenagers affected by this news so please share with them the links to Mikeysline and other support groups. It’s ok not to be ok, but talking about it can help. We send our deepest condolences to Liam’s family.”
Linda McAteer said: “He was a lovely, kind, sweet boy with a cheeky smile. I have fond memories of teaching him. My love to Tiana and all the family at this heart-breaking time x.”
Karen Maclennan commented: “Sorry to hear this terrible, sad news. I remember having Liam in the Dornoch nursery before he went off to Australia, and how fascinated he was by the Great Barrier Reef. Thinking of you all xx.”
Catherine Bunn stated: “We will all remember him and his smile.”
