'Her light still shines': Ashling Murphy honoured on what would have been her 27th birthday

A moving tribute has been shared to mark what would have been Ashling Murphy's 27th birthday as communities continue to remember the young teacher and musician whose murder shocked Ireland in 2022.

Ashling was just 23 when she was killed while jogging in Tullamore, Co Offaly, sparking nationwide grief and calls for change around women's safety.

On Sunday, the Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund paid tribute to her memory, describing this as her "fourth heavenly birthday away from those who loved her, and who continue to love and miss her so dearly."

The post reflected on how her memory "lives on" and her legacy "endures in the countless lives she touched during her short but remarkable time with us — and in those she will continue to inspire in the years ahead".

The post remembered her "love of music, her unwavering dedication to teaching and learning, her kindness, her generous spirit, and her radiant smile," and added that although she may be gone, there is comfort in knowing that "her light still shines — in the hearts of those she loved, and in the many lives her legacy continues to uplift."

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A post shared by Ashling Murphy Memorial Fund (@ashling_murphy_memorial_fund)

Since her death, the memorial fund has raised tens of thousands of euro for sports clubs, music projects and community initiatives, echoing Ashling's passions and community spirit.

Her legacy has also reached far beyond Ireland. Last year, a woman completed the New York Marathon wearing a t-shirt with Ashling's name and photo, ensuring that her story reached an international stage.

Ashling Murphy's name remains closely linked to efforts promoting women's safety and the love of music and teaching she embodied in life.

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