Photograph was taken months before family hit by tragedy

A PHOTOGRAPH of Michelle Stephen and her son Leon with her father when he was dying of cancer was taken just months before the family was engulfed by tragedy.

Jimmy Weir, a former prison officer, died in January.

Friends said that Michelle, who was found dead at her home in Sighthill together with her five-year-old son, had struggled to come to terms with her father’s death.

Yesterday, family members described the mother and her son as “special members of our family who were dearly loved and will be sadly missed”.

In a statement released by Lothian and Borders Police, the family said: “We would like to pay tribute to two very special members of our family who were dearly loved and will be sadly missed.

“In wake of this tragic incident we would like to thank everyone for their kind words, warm condolences and tributes.

“Barry and Michelle were a couple very much in love. Both were devoted to Leon and the whole family are struggling to come to terms with the loss of two such precious lives.

“With this in mind, we would now ask for some privacy and time to grieve in peace.”

At Murrayburn Primary School, which Leon attended, pupils and staff were shocked and saddened by the deaths.

Headteacher Michael Urquhart said: “Murrayburn Primary School is deeply saddened at the death of a Primary 1 pupil, Leon Weston and his mother Michelle Stephen.

“Leon was a kind and caring little boy who enjoyed school and always wanted to do well.

“He loved football and cars, always showed concern for others and was a popular member of the class.

“The school is supporting pupils and staff at this difficult time and we are grateful for the support of parents.”

Leon’s fellow pupils have been offered counselling following his death.

The bodies of Mrs Stephen and Leon were found at her home by her husband Barry Stephen, whom she married at the end of last year.

Mrs Stephen worked as a secretary at St Augustine’s RC High School.