'One in a million': Tributes paid to founder of Limerick city's beloved Lawless Flowers

TRIBUTES are pouring in for the founder of Lawless Flowers in Limerick city, Nancy Lawless née Collins of Corbally, who has been described as a "gifted artist" and "one in a million."

The Askeaton native passed away in the loving care of the staff at Corbally House Nursing  Home, and in the presence of her adoring family last Friday.

Lawless Flowers have paid tribute to her saying that Nancy was a beloved mother and grandmother. "She was a true pillar of our community, a passionate florist, and a visionary entrepreneur. She founded Lawless Flowers in Bedford Row with little more than hope and hard work."

The statement continued: "Over the years, her flower shop became one of Limerick’s most cherished institutions. Under her care, the shop grew, and later her son Dan and son in law Clive continued her legacy, running Lawless Flowers on Roches Street."

READ MORE: Limerick's Paddy Reidy remembered as ‘always a kind man’ and ‘very popular’

"Nancy’s love of floristry ran deep: she was a founding member of the Limerick Flower & Garden Club and competed in flower shows, winning acclaim. Her dedication sowed seeds that bloomed not only in her business, but in her family: her grandchildren and great-grandchildren have carried forward her passion for colour, design, and community."

Lawless Flowers is currently closed to remember Nancy and will reopen on Wednesday.  

Nancy's granddaughter Nell Stritch who is also the owner of Pressed flowers by Nell based on Roches Street paid tribute to Nancy stating that she was the best grandmother she could have imagined. "When I think back on all our amazing memories and her wonderful life I am reminded of the love she gave and received, lessons she taught and inspiration she provided."

Nell added that her favourite memories that she'll always cherish was the look on Nancy's face when she saw Nell and her mother walking towards her.

"I also loved listening to her tell stories of her mom and grandmother and how they introduced her to the beautiful primrose flower which sparked her life long love of flowers, respect for nature and her dedication towards building her business around flowers," added Nell.

"She was a real icon. And I will count my lucky stars every time I think of her. I feel so lucky especially that she saw me build my business which she inspired and encouraged. I’ll miss hugging her the most and telling her how much I loved her but I’ll always speak about her and carry her legacy."

Nell also commented some of her own suppliers who used to supply Nancy when she opened her Lawless Flowers often remark how alike they are in mannerisms and attitude. "I’m going to hold onto all of that."

"So many customers know how much my nana has inspired my journey and always supported it so I will continue to share photos of us over the years and have an idea for a new piece too which I will create when I am ready," concluded Nell.

A lot of mourners have also offered their condolences and paid tribute to Nancy with one saying: "I have such wonderful and beautiful memories of Nancy, she was a gifted artist. First as a florist and then as a talented painter."

Nancy was also described as "a true Limerick legend" and a "talented lady who lived her life to the full.

"She was a gentle, lovely lady full of knowledge and humour," noted another mourner.

Nancy was one of seven children and she married Pat Lawless and had six children. 

Nancy's Funeral Mass took place in St Mary’s Church, Athlunkard Street this morning. Burial will take place in Dunquin Cemetery, Dingle, Co. Kerry (arriving approximately at 2.30pm.)

Predeceased by her husband Pat. Nancy will be sadly missed by her loving family, children Jim, Pat, Dan, John, Helen and Peter, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Mike and Clive, daughter-in-law Rita, Peter's partner Ines, sisters Celia and Helen, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.