Irish community devastated following death of…

Irish community devastated following death of 'beautiful' young mum 'full of life'

Tributes are being paid following the death of a "beautiful" young woman who was "full of life".

Rachel O'Connor, from Burrin Road, Co Carlow, died at St Luke's Hospital, Co Kilkenny, following a short illness.

The local community has been left devastated by the loss of Rachel, who was described as a "lively camogie player" and a person who "always had great humour and never failed to put a smile on all our faces".

A funeral notice reads: "Rachel O'Connor... passed away surrounded by her loving family, on November 8th, 2022, at St Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny.

"Loving mother of Ronan, adored daughter of David and Bridget, cherished sister Emma and Sarah, beloved partner of Adam and much-loved granddaughter of Davy and Breda O'Connor and Anne Proctor.

"She will be sadly missed by her loving son, parents, sisters, partner, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, relatives and her wide circle of friends."

Carlow County Camogie paid tribute to the young woman, saying: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, teammates, Naomh Brid Camogie Club and many friends of Rachel O'Connor, Carlow who died so unexpectedly today after a sudden illness.

"Rachel was a lively camogie player who played with Naomh Brid and Carlow during her underage days and with Naomh Brid at adult level.

"Rachel was a member of the Carlow Under-14 Development Squad, Under-16 and Under-18 County Teams from 2013 to 2018. During this time Carlow reached two All-Ireland finals, winning the All-Ireland Minor in 2017.

"To her heartbroken family son Ronan, mother Bridget, father David, sisters Emma and Sarah, partner, her grandmothers, grandfather, aunts, uncles and extended family and friends we extend our deepest sympathy. Ar dhéis Dé go raibh a hanam."

Others also expressed their sympathies to Rachel's family and friends.

One mourner said: "It was a privilege to share the pitch with you whilst at Naomh Bríd, Rachel you always had great humour and never failed to put a smile on all our faces. Thoughts and prayers with your family, thinking of you all at this time."

Another said: "My deepest sympathy to the O'Connor Family and extended Families on the sad passing of Rachel and may her gentle soul rest in peace."

While a third wrote: "Sincerest condolences to David, Bridget and family. It's so difficult to take in the news of your daughter Rachel. She was a real treasure. Our thoughts and humble prayers are with you during this sad time."