It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Christina McKelvie, a devoted public servant, advocate, and beloved partner, mother, and friend. Christina passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at Glasgow Royal Infirmary after a courageous battle with secondary breast cancer. She was 56 years old. Her loss is deeply felt by her family, her colleagues, and the many people whose lives she touched throughout her career in public service.
Christina McKelvie was a woman whose life was dedicated to service and advocating for those who needed it most. She was known for her tireless commitment to social justice, equality, and the betterment of Scotland. For those who had the privilege of working with her, she was a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for the underrepresented. Her work, particularly in advocating for human rights and equality, left an indelible mark on Scottish politics. Her passing is not only a loss for her immediate family but also for the many individuals and communities who benefitted from her leadership, advocacy, and commitment.
Born on March 4, 1968, Christina’s passion for public service and her dedication to others was evident from a young age. She was first elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) in 2007, where she began her influential career in politics. Christina’s early years as an MSP saw her representing Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse from 2011, and throughout this period, she gained recognition for her unwavering commitment to equality and social justice. Throughout her time in office, Christina was known for her tireless work ethic, her belief in Scotland’s independence, and her passionate advocacy for the marginalized.
In her role, Christina convened two parliamentary committees before being appointed as a Minister in 2018. As the Minister for Equalities, she fought hard for the rights of women, the LGBTQ+ community, and marginalized groups, always striving for a Scotland where everyone, regardless of their background, could live with dignity and opportunity. Christina’s leadership extended beyond her first ministerial role, as she later served as the Minister for Culture, Europe, and International Development, and, most recently, in 2024, she became the Minister for Drugs and Alcohol Policy. Christina’s leadership was characterized by warmth, determination, and a deep understanding of the needs of those she served. She earned the respect and admiration of not only her party members but also her colleagues across the political spectrum.
Her contributions extended beyond Scotland’s borders as well. Christina served as Convener of the European and External Relations Committee and was a member of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe between 2016 and 2018. This role helped her bring Scotland’s concerns and perspectives to a wider stage, allowing her to contribute meaningfully to the European community and to global discussions on social issues. Whether her work was on the domestic front or on the international stage, Christina’s integrity and compassion shone through. Her impact was felt on a local, national, and international level, and her legacy will be forever intertwined with the causes she fought for.
One of Christina’s most enduring contributions was her advocacy for people living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and her work on breast cancer awareness. As a fierce advocate for people with MND, Christina worked tirelessly to support those affected by the disease. Her commitment to cancer awareness was also a significant part of her legacy, and she sponsored the first ‘Wear It Pink’ event at the Scottish Parliament. Through this event, she encouraged women to prioritize their health, raising awareness about breast cancer and encouraging people to take proactive steps in safeguarding their well-being. This message resonated deeply with many, particularly as Christina herself became a patient and continued to speak out about the importance of early detection and care.
Her advocacy and passion for social justice extended well beyond the work she did in the parliamentary chambers. Christina was known for her boundless energy, which she poured into every aspect of her work and personal life. Her deep care for people was felt by all who encountered her. As a public figure, she had the ability to connect with individuals on a deeply personal level, offering support, guidance, and encouragement when it was most needed. Whether helping a constituent navigate an issue or offering words of comfort to a friend, Christina’s kindness and dedication were unwavering. Her loss leaves a void in the lives of many, particularly those who worked with her in the public service sector, but her legacy will live on in the changes she helped bring about and the lives she touched.
Christina’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who knew and loved her. Her partner, Keith Brown, shared poignant memories of her incredible energy, kindness, and dedication, describing her as someone who “lit up every room she was in with her positivity and bright smile.” Christina’s sons, Lewis and Jack, have expressed their heartbreak at losing their mother, a woman who was not only their guiding light but also an inspiration to everyone who knew her. The many friends, colleagues, and constituents who admired her commitment to public service and her unwavering belief in Scotland’s potential have also been left devastated by the news of her death.
A memorial service to celebrate Christina’s life and legacy is currently being planned. The details of the service, including the date and location, will be shared soon, and it is expected that many from across the country and beyond will gather to honor her memory. The service will provide an opportunity for Christina’s loved ones, colleagues, and those she helped throughout her life to pay their respects and reflect on her remarkable journey. While no words can ease the pain of her loss, this service will serve as a fitting tribute to the life she lived and the work she so passionately pursued.
As the community processes this unimaginable loss, Christina’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide others. Her tireless efforts to promote equality, her advocacy for social justice, and her dedication to public service will live on in the work she did and the changes she made. Christina’s memory will remain in the hearts of those she touched, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. While she may no longer be with us in person, her spirit will live on in the causes she championed and the lives she impacted.
Christina McKelvie was a woman whose life was defined by a deep commitment to the values of fairness, justice, and equality. She dedicated her career to making Scotland a better, more inclusive place, and her work touched countless lives. Her passing is a heartbreaking loss, but her legacy will continue to guide and inspire those who continue the fight for social justice and equality. As the community comes together to mourn her passing, we will also celebrate the extraordinary life she led, knowing that her impact will never fade.
Rest in peace, Christina. Your light will never fade, and your legacy will continue to inspire us all.
