A heartbroken mother from Romford has spoken out after discovering that cherished items left at her baby daughter’s grave in Upminster Cemetery have gone missing.
A Place of Peace Violated
Lucy Vermussche, 35, made the upsetting discovery on March 25 while visiting the resting place of her daughter, Grace Ogoliegbune, at Upminster Cemetery on Ockendon Road. Grace, who was born prematurely at 24 weeks, passed away just weeks later and was laid to rest at the site on January 30 last year.
She alerted the cemetery authorities, who stated that groundsmen would be made aware. However, Lucy remains concerned, especially after being informed that installing a camera to monitor the area would not be possible.
A Place of Mourning, Not Violation
The theft has left Lucy feeling violated and deeply saddened. She continues to visit Grace’s grave daily, hoping that the missing items might somehow be returned.
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“I just think it’s disgusting. I feel like that place should be just respected. It’s just not fair at all. Losing Grace was already unbearable—having her resting place disturbed only adds to the pain. A cemetery should be a place of remembrance and respect. No family should have to worry about their loved one’s resting place being violated.”
Community Support and Concerns
The local community has expressed sympathy and outrage, with many sharing Lucy’s sentiments about respecting graves and memorial spaces. There is growing concern about the security of cemetery sites and calls for improved surveillance to protect grieving families.
We contacted Upminster Cemetery for a comment and were advised to approach Havering Council for a statement. As of now, no official response has been received.
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If you have any information about the stolen items or have witnessed suspicious activity in the cemetery, please contact the local authorities. Let’s work together to support Lucy and her family during this difficult time and ensure that Grace’s memory is honored with the respect it deserves.
