Rest in Peace
Niamh Barry – Rest in Peace(Image: RIP.ie)
One of Cork’s largest camogie clubs has led tributes following the death of one of their players. Niamh Barry passed away suddenly on Thursday, and her clubmates have described her as a kind and caring young woman who was keen to support her teammates both on and off the pitch.
Niamh, who was from Frankfield on the southside of Cork city, worked as a special needs assistant and was heavily involved in sport.
Many of her teammates, colleagues, former classmates and friends have come forward to share kind words and memories ahead of her funeral on Monday. They described Niamh as a kind and hardworking young woman with a ‘beautiful soul and a big heart.’
Niamh is survived by her mother, Órla, her brother, Donncha, her grandmothers, and a wide circle of friends and extended family. The young woman is predeceased by her father, Seamus, her sister Ciara and her grandfathers, Des and John.
A spokesperson for the Blackrock Campogie Club said: “Our hearts are heavy as we share the sad news of the passing of our friend & teammate Niamh Barry. There are no words that can express the sadness at losing someone so young.
“Niamh was kind & caring on and off the pitch, constantly cheering on her teammates, working hard week in & week out and fighting for every ball.
“Our thoughts, prayers & deepest condolences are with Niamh’s Mum Orla & brother Donncha, her family, friends & teammates during this incredibly difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”
Niamh was also involved with the Ballincollig Basketball Club, and several of her former teammates paid tribute in recent days.
One wrote: “Sincere Sympathy to Orla, Donncha & the wider Barry/Kelleher Families on the sad passing of Niamh. She was a bright light for all who knew her. We have fond memories of her when she played with Ballincollig BC. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. May she rest in peace.”
Another Leeside club, Glen Rovers, also paid respect to the Barry family, with a spokesperson for the club writing: “We extend our sympathy to Niamh’s family and to Blackrock Camogie club on your loss, our deepest sympathy to you all at this difficult time.”
Lastly, a former colleague said: “We are deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Niamh’s sudden passing. Working beside Niamh was always a pleasure. Niamh’s smile and kind energy were both uplifting and warm to everyone around her.
“We will fondly remember you always Niamh. Our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends at this very difficult time. Codladh go samh Niamh”
The young woman will lie in repose at the Temple Hill Funeral Home from 3 pm to 4 pm on Sunday, July 5. Her funeral will be held the following day at the Church of the Incarnation, Frankfield, and a live stream of the service will be available from 11 am.
The family have requested donations to Epilepsy Ireland in lieu of flowers. Rest in Peace.