She was known as a “free spirit” with a huge sense of adventure to her friends and family.
And her love of the finer things in life also earned Sarah Darnley the nickname “Lady Darnley”.
Yesterday, hundreds of people gathered to remember the Super Puma crash victim, who died along with three other offshore workers when their helicopter crashed off Shetland.
At a celebration of her life at Moray Crematorium, the 45-year-old was described as a popular, fun-loving character who was “up for an adventure”.
Mourners heard that Miss Darnley, who grew up in Elgin, was a “daddy’s girl” to father Eddie, very close to her mother Anne, a loving sister to Angela, and a beloved aunt, niece and cousin.
“Sarah has left us as she lived – dramatically and on the crest of a wave. We treasure her memory,” said pastoral assistant Paula Baker, who conducted the service.
Family and friends, some of whom stood outside because the crematorium was full, heard that teachers found Miss Darnley to be “quite a character” at Elgin High and New Elgin Primary.
Mrs Baker said: “Her report cards said she was bright and artistic, but that she needed to work a little bit harder.”
A compassionate friend, she loved dancing and gymnastics, and animals, particularly cats.
The former Moray College student decided she wanted a career offshore when she was in her 20s.
After completing training courses, she found work quickly, and her first trip was floating a rig from Norway to the North Sea.
Mrs Baker said Miss Darnley, who lived in Aberdeen, relished that first trip – but it caused “great anxiety to her family”.
She later had a spell working as a financial adviser, before returning offshore in 2002.
Her job took her to a variety of countries, including Belgium, the Falkland Islands, Norway and Turkey.
“She loved the camaraderie,” said Mrs Baker.
“She loved life. She was a free spirit, and a great traveller.
“Having friends far and wide gave her the opportunity to travel far and wide.
“She relished great friends, fine wine and anything that was a good laugh.”
Mrs Baker said Miss Darnley had strong opinions about politics, and was a supporter of many charities. A horse-riding fan, she was delighted to be at the dressage final at the London Olympics last year.
Friends paid heartfelt tributes to Miss Darnley, saying she would be remembered for her enthusiasm and ability to live life in the moment.
A close friend said: “It’s true to say that any party didn’t get started until she rolled up.
“More often than not she would be with someone or visiting someone.
“Like a wandering ivy, she grew attached to her London and Aberdeen family, and visited friends in Spain, Argentina and Cape Town.
“Sarah certainly liked the good things in life – the best cognac, Chanel, designer clothes, and first class travel.”
He said her love of the finer things in life earned her the nickname “Lady Darnley”.
He added: “She is possibly rocking it up there with the angels, and no doubt asking the angels to play her tunes with their harps.
“Sarah, sadly the party with you is over, because it’s one that you left far, far too soon.”
The service closed with the hymn Lord of the Dance.
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