Huge sadness after untimely death of sister of RTÉ star Maura Derrane

TRIBUTES have been paid to sister of Today Show host, Rita Derrane, after her untimely passing.

Rita, who is sisters with RTÉ presenter Maura Derrane, had been battling with illness for a long period of time. 

Tributes have been paid to "kind and gentle" Rita, who passed away on Tuesday at University Hospital Galway. Originally from Inis Mór, she had been living in Knocknacarra in Galway.

Taken from her obituary on RIP.ie, Rita will be reposing at Conneelys Funeral Home, Flood Street Galway on Thursday 16th November from from 2pm to 4pm.  Removal to Rossaveal pier where Aran Island Ferries will take Rita on her final journey to Inis Mór.

Reposing at Séipéal Naomh Brīd and Naomh Oilibhéar Pluincéad, Kilronan with Funeral mass the following morning (November 17th) at 12 noon. Rita will be laid to rest in Reilig Chill Éinne afterwards. 

The death notice read: "Dearly missed by her loving family, daughter Kila, mother Bridgie, father Mattie (deceased) sisters Maura, Róisín  and Barbara, Uncle Pádraig, nephews Ethan and Cal brothers in law John and Rob, cousins and extended family."