Shock in Laois following sad passing of popular Rathdowney mother

There is shock and sadness across Laois this week, following the unexpected passing of a well-known Rathdowney woman.

Ann McNamara of Erkina Court, Rathdowney and formerly Errill, sadly passed away on Wednesday March 25.

The mother of two and grandmother of three is well known in her community for her kind words, her sense of humour and her genuine character.

Ann was known for her selfless voluntary work, giving up her time to local community groups such as Rathdowney's girl guides and Scoil Bhríde's parents' association.

Countless young girls, and many who have since grown into young women, remember Ann for her kindness and fun on Friday evening Brownie meetings, and trips away to the Brownie cottage.

Ann had a deep pride and an endless love for her family, particularly for her husband Ollie, her daughters Rebecca and Kiera, and her adored grandchildren Lukas, Lucia and Noah.

The Rathdowney mother had an artistic streak that was admired by many, and had an extraordinary talent for crocheting. She had a bright smile and a kind word for everyone, and will be sorely missed in her community.

Ann is remembered by her loving family, her wide circle of friends, and the many people locally she touched with her positivity and friendship.

Read Ann's funeral notice below.

Ann McNamara (née Ibbetson), 20 Erkina Court, Rathdowney, Co. Laois and formerly Erill, Co. Laois, suddenly but peacefully at her residence in the presence of her family.

Predeceased by her parents Laurence and Marie, brother Jason and sister Adeline.

Sadly missed and remembered with love by her heartbroken family, husband Ollie, daughters Becky and Keira, grandchildren Lukas, Lucia and Noah, Becky's partner Marko, Kiera's partner Eoin, sisters Geraldine and Sineàd, mother-in-law Mary, father-in-law Ollie, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.

May she Rest in Peace.

Reposing at O'Sullivan's Funeral Home, Rathdowney, on Friday evening March 27th. from 5 o'clock pausing for Prayers at 7.30.

Removal from Funeral Home on Saturday morning to the Church of the Most Holy Trinity, Rathdowney, arriving for Requiem Mass at 11 o'clock.

Interment afterwards in Bealady Cemetery. Ann's funeral Mass can be viewed by pressing the following link https://www.parishwebsites.ie/rathdowney/