A fundraising effort launched to support the family of a young Banbridge mother-of-seven who died suddenly has raised over £68,000 in a matter of days.
Described by her husband Bernard as a “mummy like no other, wife and best friend”, Zipporah Branagan’s loss will be deeply felt by him, their seven children, and their extended family.
Originally from Cabra, Zipporah was mother to seven boys: Noah, Theo, Teddy, Isaac, Hugo, Ezra, and baby Cooper.
It is understood that the young mum – aged in her mid-thirties – passed away in hospital on April 29 after taking unwell. A post-mortem examination has been carried out to determine the cause of death.
In a tribute to his late wife, Bernard said: “Zipporah, you were the mummy, the boss, the leader, the strength, the cook, the calm voice, the shoulder to cry on, the woman with all the answers and to me you’re the wife that just kept giving. We will miss you beyond belief – me and the seven little men you gave me.
“RIP Zipporah, love you so much.”
The fundraising effort, launched to support the family in the wake of their tragic loss, was initially set with a target of £5,000. A testament to how deeply Zipporah was loved, the campaign has already raised an incredible £68,000.
The description on the fundraiser reads: “With broken hearts, we share the devastating news of the sudden and unexpected passing of a loving mother to seven beautiful children and devoted wife. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering love were the foundation of their home, and now her absence leaves an unimaginable void.
“As the family navigate this heart-breaking new reality, they need our support more than ever. Family friends are hoping that, as a community, we can help ease their burden and offer a glimmer of stability in this incredibly difficult time.
“No donation is too small – every gift is a step toward helping this family feel a little less alone and a little more secure. Thank you for standing with them in love and compassion in these tragic circumstances.”
Clonduff GAC offered their condolences to Zipporah’s family: “We in Clonduff GAA Club are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden and unexpected death of Zipporah Branagan, wife of our former player, former vice-chair, current mentor, referee and dad of seven little boys, Bernard Branagan. May Zipporah rest in peace.
“To Bernard, the little boys – Noah, Theo, Teddy, Isaac, Hugo, Ezra and baby Cooper – Zipporah’s siblings Lavinia, Aharon, Kathleen, Monique, their partners and children; Bernard’s parents Oliver and Margaret; his brothers and sisters Eugene, Stephen, Christine, Oliver, Kevin, Jolene, their partners and children; neighbours and friends and the entire Branagan and Murtagh family circles – we extend our sincerest and heartfelt sympathies.
“You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this extremely sad time.”
As a mark of respect, the club has suspended all matches, training sessions, and set dancing until Sunday.
Sharing news of the fundraiser, another supporter added: “Beautiful Angel who has been taken too soon. The community is utterly devastated. Nothing can change the path which is laid out for us, but as a community and parish, we always come together to help in any way we can – and so we shall do.
“This cannot replace the devastating loss in the Branagan and Murtagh households, but together we can ease the burden of other things.
“Now is our time to show our support to seven beautiful little boys and their father Bernard, who has always played his role within our club and parish to the highest standard and dedication. Rest easy Zipporah, a beautiful wife and mother who will continue to guide from above xx”
A death notice described Zipporah as the dearly loved wife of Bernard and devoted mother of Noah, Theo, Teddy, Isaac, Hugo, Ezra and baby Cooper, and daughter of the late John and Bridie Murtagh.
Zipporah’s remains will repose at her home, 90 Bannfield Road, Ballyroney, Banbridge (BT32 5JQ), today (Friday) from 12 noon – 9pm. Removal will take place on Saturday at 11am for 12 noon Requiem Mass in St Mary’s Church, Cabra. Interment will follow in the adjoining cemetery.
For those wishing to pay their respects at the family home, a one-way system will be in operation – entering via Bannfield Road (adjacent to St Mary’s Church, Cabra) and exiting via Drumdreenagh Road.
Her loss is deeply regretted by her sorrowing husband, sons, sisters and brother – Lavinia (Ryan), Aharon (Claire), Kathleen (Neil), and Monique (Neil); father- and mother-in-law Oliver and Margaret Branagan; brothers- and sisters-in-law Eugene (Ann Marie), Stephen (Kathy), Christine (Anthony), Oliver (Wendy), Kevin (Chloe), and Jolene (Ryan); aunts, uncles, cousins and the entire family circle.
You can make a donation to the JustGiving page in memory of Zipporah here.
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