'Our immediate concern now is Valerie's funeral and burial at home here later this week in West Cork which she adored. As we do this we hope and pray that the privacy and tragedy of our grief will be respected.'
THE family of Valerie French-Kilroy - her mother, brother and sisters - have asked that the following statement be issued on their behalf by the Dean of Ross, the Very Reverend Christopher Peters, and their Bishop, Right Reverend Dr Paul Colton:
'As a family we have been in great shock since we received the news of our dear Valerie’s death at her home in County Mayo. Our family has been gathering from different parts of Ireland and from around the world. We are heartbroken and it is all too much, at this early stage, for us to take in.
'Valerie was a much loved daughter, sister, niece, cousin, friend and colleague to many. She was a loving wife to James, and adored her three children. Valerie was an immensely caring and loving person - this was her calling at work and at home throughout her life.
'We are hugely grateful for the outpouring of sorrow following Valerie’s death, and also for the goodwill and practical support so many people are showing to us.
'Our immediate concern now is Valerie’s funeral and burial at home here later this week in West Cork which she adored. As we do this we hope and pray that the privacy and tragedy of our grief will be respected. Again we thank everyone for their kindness to us.'
Valerie’s funeral service will be held at St Fachtna’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Rosscarbery, at 2.30pm this Thursday, June 20th, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery; family flowers only – donations in lieu to Crumlin Children’s Hospital.
