'Just tragic' - Funeral announced for couple found dead in jacuzzi on family holiday in Spain
Irishwoman Thomasina Tobin and her husband Patrick were found by their teenage children
Funeral details have been announced for Irishwoman Thomasina Tobin, 51, originally from Castleblayney in Co Monaghan, and her husband Patrick (Paddy) Tobin, 48, who was originally from Wellington in New Zealand, who tragically died while on a family holiday in Cullera, near Valencia, last month.
The couple were found in a jacuzzi at their rented holiday property by their teenage children, who raised the alarm.
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Spanish authorities launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, with foul play subsequently ruled out and investigators focusing on the possibility of a tragic accident.
Reports in Spain have suggested a problem with the jacuzzi's circulation or suction system may have played a role in the tragedy.
Initial findings have reportedly pointed towards a cardiopulmonary incident caused by acute stress, rather than drowning, while investigators have continued to examine the equipment and await further test results.
The London-based couple's sudden deaths sent shockwaves through their families and communities in Ireland, the UK and New Zealand.
Thomasina was a chartered quantity surveyor who had built a successful career in London, while Patrick worked in the technology sector.
“With love and sympathy to all affected by this terrible loss. May you all but particularly Rhea and Séamus remember Thomasina and Paddy’s love. I spent time with Thomasina as a school governor and on the Tombola stall at many school fairs. She had an unwavering integrity along with a sense of fun.”
Another said,
“We are so saddened for all of you on the tragic loss of Thomasina and Patrick.Our sincere sympathy to you, Tommy, and to all of the Mc Ardle family and to Rhea and Séamus and the Tobin family.
“May you all find the strength to deal with the terrible grief that has suddenly been thrust upon you. Thomasina was such a lovely girl and a very talented student. May their gentle souls rest in peace.”
While Drumhowan GAA said,
“The Club would like to offer its sincerest sympathy to Our Club President Tommy, Coaching Officer John and the rest of the Mc Ardle & Tobin Families on the sudden deaths of Thomasina and her husband Patrick . We will keep them all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha”
Their death notice on RIP.ie reads,
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Thomasina Tobin (née McArdle), formerly of Cabra, Castleblayney, and her beloved husband Patrick (Paddy) Tobin, originally from Wellington, New Zealand, who passed away suddenly while on holiday in Spain on Monday, 24th August 2026.
Much loved parents of Rhea and Séamus, Thomasina and Paddy will be deeply missed by their children, their families, relatives and many friends.
Thomasina, beloved daughter of Tommy and the late Nancy McArdle, was predeceased by her nephew Lewis and niece Sophia. She will be sadly missed by her father Tommy, her siblings Kathy, Julianne, John, Elizabeth, Anne Marie, Cera, Septima and Duana, their partners, nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.
Patrick, beloved son of Clare and Michael Tobin, will be deeply missed by his sisters Selena, Natasha and Katische, niece Grace, nephew Cooper, aunts, uncles, extended family and friends in Ireland, New Zealand, the UK and beyond.
Thomasina and Paddy shared a life filled with love, family and friendship. Their sudden passing has left an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew and loved them.
May they rest in eternal peace together.
Funeral Arrangements
Thomasina and Patrick (Paddy) will repose at Ward’s Funeral Home, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan (A75 H585), on Thursday, September 17th, from 2pm until 7pm, with family in attendance, where you can pay your respects.
The funeral cortège will travel from Thomasina’s family home in Cabra (strictly private) on Friday morning, September 18th, arriving at Our Lady of Knock Church, Ballintra (A75 F750), for Funeral Mass (public) at 11am.
The funeral cortège will continue onwards for a strictly private cremation service.
You can view the funeral mass here.