Family of Vicky Phelan invite public to memorial service celebrating her life

THE FAMILY of Cervical Check campaign hero Vicky Phelan have invited the public to a special memorial honouring her life.

The mother-of-two, who was living in Annacotty and was awarded the Freedom of Limerick earlier this year, passed away at Milford Care Centre in the early hours of Monday, November 14, following a lengthy battle with cervical cancer.

Following the passing of the "heart and soul of the family" a private funeral was held for Vicky for those who were close to her.

"Goodbyes are never easy and on Thursday last we said ours, in what was a very moving and deeply personal gathering amongst family and friends," the Phelan and Kelly families said in a combined statement on Monday.

"Stories were told and tears were shed, but we also shared a smile or two as we remembered the remarkable life of our wonderful Vicky," the statement continued.

Family of Vicky Phelan speak of their 'immense burden of grief' following her death

The families expressed their heartfelt gratitude for all the good wishes from near and far over the last week. "We too felt the nations love and are forever grateful," they said.

Vicky was a friend to many and was keen to ensure that all who wanted had the opportunity to join with us in a celebration of her life and pay their final respects, they continued.

The family have invited the public to Vicky's native Mooncoin, County Kilkenny (Eircode X91 YY36) on Sunday, November 27, at 1pm, where "we will do our best to honour that wish."

As numbers in the church itself are limited, there will be a live stream available on the day also, details of which will be posted later in the week with further updates on the event itself.

"At this point it's fair to say that music will feature prominently, with some of her favourite musicians playing a few of her favourite tunes on the day," the Phelan and Kelly families said, concluding their public invite.