Tributes have been paid to a young Newry woman who has passed away after a brave and lengthy battle with cancer.
Áine Maney had won the hearts of the local community and has been described as “an amazing person in every way”.
Her passing comes just a month after friends and family attended a candle-lit village for the much-loved Ballyholland woman.
Áine, who was in her early 40s, was diagnosed with terminal stage 4 colorectal cancer back in 2021. It was her third cancer diagnosis in two years.
The Ballyholland woman was first diagnosed in 2019, the day after her father – who passed away less than a year later – was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.
Áine herself passed away yesterday (Wednesday), at the Southern Area Hospice.
People have rushed to social media to remember a remarkable young woman who inspired and fought every step of the way.
One described her as an “amazing person in every way” and added: “A beauty, who enjoyed and embraced life in all its glory. You will be greatly missed Áine. You inspired us all so much with how you handled life’s challenges with dignity and grace. Thinking and praying hard for all Áine’s family at that sad time, may God give you all strength to cope with this immeasurable loss.”
Another wrote: “Áine you fought the good fight and now have finished the race. May you Sleep in Heavenly Peace.”
Last month, Áine’s younger sister, Ita Fox, had asked for the public to join her and the family at the vigil for their sister, mum and friend who was described then as “incredibly sick and could use the strength of our prayers and loving energy”.
Previously, Ita had run a fundraising drive to help give Aine options, an appeal which had raised close to £26,000.
Now the family have been devastated by their loss.
A death notice describes Áine as she cherished wife of Shane, devoted mother of Joshua, Shea, Oisin and Ava, loving daughter of Eilish and the late John and much loved sister of Damian, Cormac, Johnny, Ita, Maria, Majella and Elisha.
Her remains will repose at her late residence, 34 Innisfree Park, Ballyholland from 7pm today (Thursday), and on Friday, from 1pm – 9pm.
The funeral, for which arrangements are being undertaken by Heaney Keenan Funeral Directors, will take place on Saturday. It will leave her residence at 1.30pm for 2.30pm Requiem Mass in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Cloughoge. Burial will follow afterwards in Monkshill Cemetery.
Family flowers only have been requested, but the family have directed that donations in lieu should be made to the Southern Area Hospice c/o Heaney Keenan Funeral Directors, 53 Patrick Street, Newry, BT35 8EB.
To all of her family and friends, we offer our sincerest sympathy at this saddest of times. May Áine Rest in Peace.
