Tributes have been paid to Aoife O’Brien, a 19-year-old woman from Gortgarralt, Fedamore, Co Limerick, who died suddenly while on holiday in Portugal.
Aoife passed away on Thursday, August 27, while in Portugal, a country her family said was a place very close to her heart.
She was the beloved daughter of Joe and Mary and the cherished sister of Ciara. Her death notice said she would be deeply missed by her parents, sister, grandmother Helen McCarthy, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and many friends.
Aoife’s family also expressed their deepest appreciation to the paramedics, doctors and staff who supported her, as well as Ryanair, Shannon Airport and the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust for their care and assistance during the difficult period.
Friends, relatives and members of the community have shared emotional tributes, remembering Aoife as a kind, funny and down-to-earth young woman who was full of life.
One tribute described her as a lovely young woman who was always laughing or smiling, while another remembered her as funny and charming. A close friend also described Aoife as a lovely, funny and down-to-earth girl who had made a lasting impact on those around her.
Aoife’s funeral was scheduled for 11.30am on Saturday, September 5, at St John the Baptist Church in Fedamore. She was then due to be laid to rest at Taylor’s Cross Cemetery in Fedamore.
Her family asked those attending the funeral to wear bright colours, with something yellow if possible, to reflect Aoife’s love of colour.
The family also asked that anyone wishing to make a donation in her memory consider supporting the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, which helps return people who have died abroad to Ireland.