RIP: Heartbreak in Leitrim and beyond as tributes flow for ‘woman of exceptional beauty, grace and elegance’

Tributes have been pouring in after a community and beyond were left heartbroken by the passing of a Leitrim lady described as “beautiful, kind and gentle.”

Maeve Haslette (née Kerrigan) of Towneymoyle, Manorhamilton, passed away peacefully at Sligo University Hospital on November 24, surrounded by her loving family.

She is deeply missed by her husband Ronan, her dad Seamus, brothers Shane, Pauric and James, sisters-in-law Lynda and Julianna, nephews and nieces Seamie, Ryan, Shay, Conor, James, Ivannia and Ophelia, her aunts and uncles, the wider Dolan and Kerrigan families, and her many heartbroken friends, colleagues and neighbours. She is predeceased by her mother Mary, sister Ann and cousin Rachel.

The Manorhamilton and wider community have been deeply saddened by her loss, with tributes shared on RIP.ie. One condolence described Maeve as “a woman of exceptional beauty, grace, and elegance, qualities that shone through in everything she did.”

Maeve will repose at Our Lady’s Hospital Chapel in Manorhamilton on Wednesday, November 26 from 3pm to 8pm. Removal will take place on Thursday, November 27 to St Osnat’s Church, Glencar, for requiem Mass at 1pm, followed by burial in Diffreen Cemetery.

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She has been lovingly remembered in many condolences: “Maeve was the epitome of pure goodness. She had the most beautiful, kind hearted, considerate and gentle soul. She oozed joy and positivity, encouraging and supportive to so many.

“Maeve’s deep love for her family, friends and her career was evident to all. And her fun loving, beautiful personality and smile was infectious. For her loving family that Maeve cherished so dearly, the loss of your darling Maeve is unimaginable.”

Maeve taught at Scoil Naomh Molaise in Grange, where she will be greatly missed. A tribute from the school read: “Maeve’s love of teaching was evident in every classroom moment. She nurtured her pupils with patience and care, encouraging them not only to learn but to grow in confidence and character.

“Her sense of humour brought laughter into the school corridors, and her musical and artist gifts enriched school life, leaving memories that will echo for years to come.”

Leitrim GAA also paid tribute on Facebook. Maeve’s husband Ronan is a former Leitrim star, and the Kerrigan Group on her family’s side are valued sponsors of the minor team. 

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Businesses including Kerrigan Quarries, Óstaw8 Restaurant, Costcutters, Thornton's Butchers and Merenda and Manorhub will be closed on Thursday, November 27 as a mark of respect.

Another condolence added: “She was the most beautiful, kind and gentle lady. You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this terrible time of grief. May Maeve's sweet gentle soul rest in peace.”