Freida Byrne, (nee Gavin)

The death took place peacefully on April 25 last at her home in Ponders End, Middlesex, England of Mrs Freida Byrne (nee Gavin), late of Thornhill, Murrisk.

Freida, who was aged 61 years, was daughter of the late Patrick and Bridie Gavin. She passed away following a courageous and dignified battle with serious illness.

As a young girl, Freida attended Lecanvey National School and then went on to the Sacred Heart School in Westport. During that time worked for Tommie and Babs Nolan, Westport, where she received great kindness. Freida then started  work at Ranks Flour Mill offices at Westport Quay. However, like so many of her peers, Freida emigrated to England in 1970 and found work for a number of years as a secretary in an insurance office.

Whilst living in London, Freida met Aiden Byrne from Athy, Co Kildare and they married in 1977. Some three years later, Freida gave birth to her only daughter Lisa. Freida gave up work to rear her daughter, after which she returned to work as a legal secretary for a good number of years. Freida and Aiden finally became the managers of a public house in the Holloway Road area of North London.

Freida excelled in all she did, with a warm and kind hearted approach to everyone she met. Her sense of humour, friendliness, honesty and hospitality were all trademarks of this remarkable lady. Freida will be deeply missed by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Following Requiem Mass in her parish church St Joseph’s, Highgate Hill, her remains were brought home to be waked in the house of her sister Helen Heraty, Brackloon, Westport. From there her body was removed to St Patrick’s Church, Lecanvey on May 15, 2013. Her funeral Mass was celebrated the following day by Fr Paddy Gill, Lecanvey.  Fr Karl Burns, CC, Westport and Fr Michéal MacGréil, SJ. (Loughloon) concelebrated. Freida’s remains were laid to rest in Murrisk Abbey Cemetery. Large crowds of people attended the removal, Mass and burial.

Freida is survived by her husband Aiden, daughter Lisa, sisters Helen, Noreen, Beatrice and Sheila; brothers John and Patrick; brothers-in-law Eddie and John and her nieces and nephews. May eternal light shine upon her.

We hold you close within our hearts,

And there you shall remain,

To walk with us throughout our lives,

Until we meet again.

So rest in peace dearest Freida,

And thanks for all you have done,

We pray that God has given you,

The crown you’ve truly won.

Go Dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dí.