By Ruairi Scott Byrne

Copyright irishmirror

A wave of sadness’ has swept over a close-knit community in Co Waterford following the sudden death of an ‘amazing young lady’ who had ‘a natural gift to make people feel seen and valued’.

Molly O’Mahony, from Dungarvan, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 13, leaving her friends, family and neighbours devastated.

Molly is survived and deeply mourned by her heartbroken parents Michael and Marie, sister Hannah, grandfather John Michael Duggan, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and many friends.

Molly was an incredibly popular figure in Dungarvan and was known for her bright and bubbly personality, with heartbreaking tributes being paid to the young woman.

The Waterford native worked for Carriglea Cáirde Services, which provides residential, respite and day services to adults with intellectual disabilities, with the Dungarvan-based nonprofit organisation paying a touching tribute to their cherished colleague.

“We are all devastated to hear of the unexpected passing of our dear colleague and friend Molly O’Mahony,” they said in a statement.

“Molly was an example of compassion and kindness to all those she supported and worked alongside.

“Molly had a natural gift to make people feel seen and valued, and was always the first to lend a hand and offer words of encouragement.

“Molly helped to create a culture of kindness and warmth, just by being herself.

“Molly will be remembered with deep gratitude and affection by all who worked with her and those she supported.

“We offer our sincerest condolences to her parents, Michael & Marie, and her sister, Hannah.

“As a mark of respect our community based day service operations will be closed on Wednesday the 17th September 2025.”

Labour Party Cllr Thomas Phelan, who represents Dungarvan LEA, said Molly’s sudden death came as ‘a massive shock’ to her friends and family.

“Gone too soon and so suddenly. A massive shock leaving a wave of sadness over the entire area,” he said.

“My heart goes out to Michael, Marie & Hannah, and all Molly’s extended family, friends and neighbours on their tragic loss. May she rest in peace.”

Molly and her family were heavily involved with their local amateur football team Ballinroad Soccer Club, who paid an emotional tribute to the bubbly young woman in a message shared on social media.

“A dark shadow of sadness was cast over the area yesterday afternoon as the news began to filter through of the untimely passing of Molly O’Mahony, Ballinroad,” they said.

“One of the bubbliest characters you could meet, you were always guaranteed to be greeted with a beaming smile from beautiful Molly.

“We are truly heartbroken for Molly’s parents Marie and Michael, and to our clubs most loyal supporter Hannah, we’re not sure what words can give comfort right now but offer our deepest sympathies, and hope you all know there is a huge amount of love for you all through this difficult time.

“This loss will be felt far and wide, and to Molly’s broad circle of friends and her extended family we offer our most heartfelt sympathies.

“Many will no doubt join us in thinking of the incredible staff at Clonea Leisure Centre also.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hAnam.”

The social post was met with an outpouring of support for Molly’s family, with many people sharing fond memories of the popular young woman.

One mourner said: “We were heartbroken when we hear of this awfully sad news. Molly was an absolute pleasure to be around. She’s always had a smile and an hello for you. What an amazing young lady!! Our hearts are broken for Mick, Marie and Hannah, no words can express our deepest sympathies to ye! You were so proud off the young woman she became and your love was clearly visible to all! Our love, thoughts and prayers are with Mick, Marie and Hannah at this horrific time.”

Another person added: “Still cannot fathom the news even a few days later. I can count on one hand the people who I could guarantee could put me in stitches laughing after talking to for five minutes on any given day. Molly was firmly on that list with her natural humour. Molly will be so sorely missed.”

While a third said: “Molly will be very much missed. I think of her growing up in Ballinroad. She attended every day of every year of Ballinroad Summer Camp like her sister Hannah did too. Always made us smile with her fun. What I will remember her for mostly is her beaming smile and her kindness. Thinking of all her family and her wide circle of friends and neighbours today. Molly was a true Ballinroad girl. May she rest in peace.”

Molly will lie in repose at The Kiely Funeral Home, Dungarvan (X35 XN79) from 5pm on Tuesday evening, with Prayers at 7pm.

Her Requiem Mass will be held at 11am on Wednesday morning in St. Laurence’s Church, Ballinroad, with interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

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