By Ruairi Scott Byrne

Copyright irishmirror

A Co Limerick community are mourning the heartbreaking loss a young mum who was “one of the most selfless and caring people on this planet”.

Sarah Gilbourne, from Kilmeedy, passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully at home” on Saturday, September 20, according to a death notice shared by her family on RIP.ie.

Sarah is sadly missed by her loving family, son Kyle, parents Pat and Margaret (nèe Carroll), brothers Ronan and Barry, sister Aoife (Leahy), partner Kevin, sister-in-law Laura, brothers-in-law Darren and Paudie, grandmother Sheila, aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces Melaine, Kayleigh, Joshua, Holly, Callan, Rogan, Lottie, Quinn, Adam, Archie, Cian Bonnie, Emma and Cillian, extended family, neighbours, many friends and her beloved dogs Molly, Rosie and crew.

Sarah’s unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the close-knit community of Kilmeedy, with friends and family paying tribute to the young mum-of-one, who has been remembered as “the epitome of kindness and compassion”.

Sarah’s brother Barry runs Kilmeedy Social Farm, which offers young people with disabilities an insight into how a farm works, an understanding of the natural environment and a chance to get up close and personal with animals.

In a heartbreaking message shared on social media, Barry said ‘a dark cloud has befallen the farm’ as he paid an emotional tribute to his beloved sister.

“A dark cloud has befallen the farm and the village of Kilmeedy this weekend, as we mourn the sudden passing of our very special family member, Sarah,” he said.

“Sarah meant a lot of things to a lot of people. A true gem in fact. She was the life and soul of our family, the farm and Kilmeedy village.

“She was the epitome of kindness & compassion ~ one of the most selfless and caring people on this planet. She loved her family, friends, community, patients of St. Ita’s, the outdoors, plants, animals, christmas to name but a few interests and above all else, her adored son Kyle.

“For anyone who was fortunate to have known or to have crossed paths with Sarah, you will know that she possessed the brightest smile, bestowed the biggest hugs and upon meeting her, she instantly made you feel warm and fuzzy inside!

“We will miss your visits for coffee and chats. Your favourite question being, “What is ye’re next project, Baz & Daz?!”, followed by your big hearty giggle.

“You will always be in our hearts, as we know we will be in yours. We are just so grateful for all the fabulous memories with you. Thank you for all the smiles and laughs. It is safe to say that Kilmeedy will not be the same without you.

“Rest easy Sarsy-Pop ~ We love you forever.”

Sarah helped organise the Full Moon Rising Festival which was held in Kilmeedy earlier this month, with organisers paying tribute to her in a message which read: “Our hearts are broken as a community. Our beautiful volunteer Sarah sadly passed away this weekend.

“Sarah was a beautiful person, always smiling, always ready for a chat and always there to help out when needed. Loved by everyone who met her. We will never forget you Sarah xx

“Our condolences to her son and all the Gilbourne family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May you rest in peace Sarah.”

Sarah was a former employee at University Maternity Hospital Limerick, where she made a huge impression on her patients and fellow co-workers, who have paid tribute to the popular figure in emotional messages shared online.

“Deepest sympathies to Sarah’s family, Sarah was a beautiful, kind, caring person. I would have worked with Sarah in the Maternity. Thinking of all Sarah’s family at this hearting breaking time,” one person said.

“My deepest condolences to Kyle and all of Sarah’s family, I had the pleasure of working with Sarah in the Mat, Sarah was a very special person with a heart of gold. When I heard about your loss I just remembered her smile and her lovely chuckle. Rest in peace Sarah,” another mourner added.

“Sincere sympathy to Sarah’s son Kyle, parents, brothers, sisters and extended family. I knew Sarah when she worked in UMHL and she was a beautiful person in every way,” a close pal said.

While a fourth mourner added: “I’m so so sorry to hear this awful news. I worked with Sarah in the maternity she was one kind and lovely person inside and out. May she rest in peace. Thinking of her beautiful son Kyle, he was the love of her life and the gilbourne family.”

Sarah’s family have said her funeral arrangements will be announced on Monday afternoon.

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