The couple who died in tragic road traffic collision at Castleblayney on Thursday evening have been named locally.
They were Ronnie and Jean Hollinger, who were aged in their 60s.
The couple had been travelling in their car when it was involved in a collision with another car and a lorry. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.
It happened shortly after 6pm on Thursday on the N2 at Mullaghnee.
Another woman, also aged in her 60s, remains in hospital in Drogheda. She had been described as being in a critical condition.
The couple who died were well-known and hugely respected in equestrian circles throughout Ireland.
They lived at Ballybay in County Monaghan, where they were the owners of the Creevagh House Stud.
Horse Sport Ireland, which is the national governing body for equestrian sport in Ireland, expressed great sadness at learning of the tragic loss.
It said it was “deeply shocked and saddened” upon learning of the tragic loss of life.
And, in a brief statement, Horse Sport Ireland added: “The Hollinger family and Creevagh prefix are hugely well-known throughout the Irish Sport Horse industry.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with their family and many friends at this very difficult time.”
Tributes have been paid via social media.
One wrote: “I have fond memories of times spent both on Ronnie’s yard and around their kitchen table. Everyone always received the warmest of welcomes. A dreadful loss. May they rest in peace.”
Another said: “The Irish and World equestrian family has lost a true gentleman. Jean was a lady. May they rest peacefully together.”
“Ronnie was a true gentleman and a great supporter of Irish horse breeding and producing,” added another from local equestrian circles.
Yet another added, simply: “One lovely couple.”
A funeral service for the couple will take place on Monday, leaving their home at 12noon and making its way to the Elim Church at Ballybay Road, Monaghan, for service at 1pm.
Afterwards, they will be laid to rest in Coolshannagh burial grounds, Monaghan.
A death notice says donations in memory of Ronnie and Jean, if so desired, can be directed for The Irish Kidney Association or Elim Missions (Cheques made payable to same) c/o Conly Funeral Directors, Ballybay, Co Monaghan or any family member.
And it adds: “Ronnie and Jean will be dearly missed by their heartbroken family; William, Lorraine (Johnston), Lucinda (Greacon), Lynette (Douglas) and Samuel, sons-in-law Alan and Raymond, daughter -in-law Jill, also their treasured grandchildren Ryan, Matthew, Grace, Harry, Alfie, Bobby, Amy, Hannah, Noah, Joseph and Will, Ronnie’s brother Jim and sister Doreen, (pre-deceased by his sister Hilda), Jean’s brothers Walter and Meredith Scott, sisters-in-law, brothers -in-law, nieces, nephews and the wider family circle.”
To all, we offer out heartfelt condolences at this very sad time.
