Couple who died of suspected murder-suicide in Clare to be cremated this afternoon

THE FUNERAL of Joe and Claire Collins, who died following a suspected murder-suicide, has taken place today (Monday November 13), with a cremation scheduled this afternoon at 2pm. 

The bodies of the married couple, Claire (51) and Joe (54) were discovered at their home in Kilnaboy, near Corofin, Clare at around 2.30pm last Thursday.

The body of Ms Collins was found inside the bungalow, while the remains of Mr Collins were discovered outside, after which gardaí were alerted.

Tributes have been paid to the couple, who have two adult daughters, Sara and Tara. Mr and Mrs Collins had just recently become grandparents.

"They will be sadly missed by their loving daughters Sara and Tara, Sara's partner Michael and their cherished grandson Rian, also by the Meere and Collins families. Claire's parents Angela and Pat and her brothers Paul and Ronnie. Joe's mother Kathleen, brothers Michael, Pat, Brian and sister Mina as well as their brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family, neighbours and many friends," their joint death notice reads.

Requiem Mass took place today at 11am with cremation service due to take place at Shannon Crematorium at 2pm.

Gardaí at Ennis are investigating the deaths of Joe and Claire and will prepare a file for the local Coroner.