Tributes paid to 'beloved' young camogie player from Limerick after her passing

TRIBUTES have been paid to a young Limerick woman who has been described as a “treasured member” of her community following her untimely passing. 

Niamh Berkery of Shanaclune, Cappamore passed away peacefully on Saturday surrounded by her family and friends at St. James’ Hospital, Dublin.

Ms Berkery was involved in a number of community groups and teams and was the PRO for Cappamore GAA and Camogie Club. 

The eldest daughter of Breda and John, Niamh will be greatly missed by her siblings Siobhan, Con and Michelle, and boyfriend Pete McNamara.

Limerick Community Games paid tribute to their colleague and special needs assistant at Scoil Chaitríona.

“Niamh was a member of our county committee for several years and was a dedicated, treasured and committed volunteer at area, county, provincial and national levels. 

“Niamh competed with Cappamore community games as a child and had many wonderful memories as a participant.

“Niamh made many wonderful friends from all corners of the country through her volunteering, such friends for whom we know this loss will be exceptionally difficult.

“We send our sincere sympathies to Niamh's family, extended family, community and friends. 

“We think especially of her family John, Breda, Con, Siobhán and Michelle and her partner Peter.

“May her beautiful soul rest in peace and may God comfort all who knew and loved her so much at this difficult time.”

Cappamore GAA and Camogie Club said they had “no words” to describe the loss of their PRO. 

“Niamh took on her role of PRO with the pride and passion she had for her club . She was a committed supporter of our club both on and off the field. 

“As a mark of respect to Niamh, our club field is closed and off the field activities will cease until further notice. 

“We send our sincere sympathies to Niamh's family, extended family and friends. We think especially of John, Breda, Con, Siobhan and Michelle and Peter.”

Ms Berkery was also a member of Bilbao AC who confirmed their clubhouse and field would remain closed until further notice as a mark of respect. 

“Niamh was a beloved member of our club for many years both as an athlete and a valued volunteer at sporting events.

“Niamh will be sorely missed by everyone here at Bilboa A.C., by her family and her many friends. May she rest in peace.”

The young woman’s family was involved in the local Cappamore Show who said they were joined with her family in mourning her loss and celebrating her life. 

“It is always heartbreaking when someone so young passes. Niamh was involved in a number of her local community organisations. 

“Her work in supporting Cappamore Show from a very early age was a continuation of the years of service given by her family members, her aunts, uncles & cousins. 

“Niamh had a friendly & kind greeting for everyone she met no matter what her role or duty.”

Ms Berkery is sadly missed by her parents, sisters and brother, their boyfriends Conor and Liam and girlfriend Jean, her boyfriend, godson Mason (Australia), aunts, uncles, cousins, grandaunts Nora & Mary, relatives, kind neighbours, a wide circle of wonderful friends and her work colleagues in Scoil Chaitríona.

Predeceased by her grandparents: Biddy and Mikie (her godfather) and Con and Brigid (her godmother), cousin Gearóid, uncle Jimmy, grandaunt Josie and other relatives. 

Ms Berkery will be reposing at Lynch-Kelly Funeral Home, Cappamore on Wednesday, October 11 from 5 pm until 8 pm. 

Arriving in St. Michael’s Church, Cappamore for Requiem Mass Thursday morning  at 11.30 am Ms Berkery will then be laid to rest in Towerhill Cemetery. 

The Requiem Mass will be streamed live at https://www.churchcamlive.ie/cappamore-parish/

Family flowers only please.  Donations, if desired, to the Bone Marrow Leukaemia Trust.

May she rest in peace.