The community of Killrossanty and Leamybrien, Co Waterford, in the shadow of the Comeragh mountains, was in a state of shock and sadness yesterday as news of the murder of popular local woman Mary Walsh began to hit home.
Ms Walsh was married to Mr Patrick Walsh, a former Waterford county footballer, who retired recently from Eircom.
The couple have two adult daughters, Karen, a nurse in Cork, and Paula who works in the AIB bank in Dungarvan. Mr Walsh and his daughters were being comforted yesterday by relatives and friends at their home in Glendalligan, Killrossanty.
The parish priest, Fr John Delaney, said there was "a huge sense of sadness here today - it's hard to comprehend such a tragedy in a small rural parish. People in the community have been supportive in every way."
Local woman Ms Deirdre Daly said her friend "Maimie", who "was mad into fitness . . . was a most lovable human being and didn't deserve to die like this".
Leamybrien shopkeeper Mr Jim Veale said Ms Walsh was a regular caller to his shop: "A nicer customer you couldn't hope to meet - the whole community is devastated by her tragic death and it will take a long time for people here to get over the trauma and stress that it has caused."
Ms Walsh worked as a debt collector for a money-lending agency and was a familiar figure in many towns around Co Waterford as well as in Youghal in east Cork, where yesterday a book of condolences was opened in the local community centre.
"She used to call a lot to council estates to collect money - she was a popular figure and well liked by everyone - she had a good manner about her," said one person who knew her through her work.
Ms Walsh's remains will be removed this evening at 6.30 p.m. from Kiely's funeral home in Dungarvan to St Brigid's Church in Killrossanty. Her funeral will take place following requiem Mass at 2 p.m. tomorrow, with burial in the adjoining cemetery.
