Renfrew Says Farewell to Mrs Renfrew — the Remarkable Effie McGachie

Today, the town of Renfrew said goodbye to one of its most loved and respected figures — Mrs Effie McGachie, known to many simply as Mrs Renfrew.

For more than 30 years, Effie chaired Renfrew Community Council, leading with kindness, strength, and an unwavering belief in what our town could achieve when people pulled together.

Community Councillor Callum Reid said:

“Effie took so many of us under her wing. She gave advice, friendship, and the occasional telling off when it was needed. She was a mentor to me, a friend to many, and the heart of Renfrew for decades. Her warmth, humour, and determination inspired everyone around her.”

Effie was fiercely proud of her Welsh roots and loved sharing stories of her childhood and her life — stories that could have filled a bestselling book. But her real legacy lies here in Renfrew, in the projects she championed, the people she supported, and the sense of community she built.

Even after stepping down as Chair, Effie continued to encourage others to get involved and to keep working for the good of the town. As [Your Name] recalled:

“When Effie wrote to me to say she was standing down, I ran straight to her house to try and change her mind. She smiled and said it was time for someone new to make a difference — but the truth is, nobody will ever come close.”

Effie’s love for her family was at the centre of everything she did, and she spoke of them with pride and joy that could brighten anyone’s day.

Renfrew has lost one of its finest. Her impact will be felt for years to come — in the work of the Community Council, in the town she helped shape, and in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know her.

The Community Council extends its deepest sympathies to Effie’s family and friends.

Thank you, Effie — for everything.