Niamh Garrahan sadly passed away last weekend
A school in Co Longford has paid a heartbreaking tribute to a former student who 'left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her'.
Niamh Garrahan, 26, from Clonbraney in Kenagh, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family last Sunday, February 15.
Niamh will be sadly missed and remembered with love by her family, mother Mary, father Donal, brother Shane, boyfriend Ethan, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends.
The 26-year-old's death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community of Kenagh, with emotional tributes pouring in for the popular young woman.
Niamh, who worked for Grant Thornton, was a former student at Ballymahon Vocational School, with staff saying "she left a lasting mark on our school community".
"It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of our former student, Niamh Garrahan," the school said in a statement.
"Niamh will always be remembered with great fondness by everyone here at Ballymahon Vocational School, where she was such a valued and special part of our school community.
"Niamh, a member of the Class of 2017, brought warmth, kindness, and a beautiful energy wherever she went. From her early days in BVS, she formed strong and genuine connections with both staff and peers, and she had a natural way of making people feel welcome and at ease. Her caring nature and open heart left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.
"We will always remember the laughter she brought, especially on school trips, where her great sense of humour and fun-loving spirit truly shone. Niamh had a wonderful way of chatting to everyone, and those easy conversations and shared moments are memories that will stay with us.
"Even after leaving BVS, it was always a joy to see Niamh. She would never pass without a smile, a wave, or stopping for a few kind words — a simple reflection of the genuinely warm person she was.
"Niamh was everything we hope our students grow to be: caring, respectful, and full of heart. She left a lasting mark on our school community and will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude.
"Niamh, thank you for the many special memories you gave us at BVS. Thank you, for the smiles and laughter. Thank you, for always being you. You will always be part of TEAM BVS.
"At this very difficult time, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to Niamh’s family, her mother Mary, father Donal, brother Shane, boyfriend Ethan, friends, and the entire Class of 2017.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Former school principal Rosemary Johnston shared her own tribute to Niamh, adding: "Deepest sympathy to the Garrahan, Cox, Casey, & Chalmers families on the very sad & untimely passing of your beloved Niamh. I have very fond memories of Niamh from my time as Principal in Ballymahon Vocational School. Niamh was a very beautiful young lady whose engaging presence always brought great joy & happiness to all around her. May Niamh's gentle soul rest in eternal peace."
A number of Niamh's former classmates at Ballymahon Vocational School also paid tribute to the popular young woman, with one person writing in a message shared online: "My deepest condolences to the Garrahan family and friends on the heartbreaking passing of Niamh. I cherish the many fond memories and laughter we shared as classmates in BVS. She was a truly kind soul whose smile left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path."
While another person added: "My sincerest condolences to Niamh’s family, friends and boyfriend. So so sad to hear of her passing. What a beautiful lady inside and out, who always had people laughing with her unbeatable humour. I’m thankful for all the memories throughout our years at school and after. You’ll be missed Niamh, and remembered forever. You’ve made such a positive impact on so many lives. Rest easy."
Niamh's funeral was held on Tuesday at Dominic’s Church in Kenagh, with the young woman then laid to rest at Kilcommoc cemetery.
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