Tributes paid to 'beautiful' Irish teen 'taken far too soon' following sudden passing

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a teenage Irish girl who passed away suddenly last week.

19-year-old Leah Marie Faughnan from Cloonfinnan, Mohill, Co Leitrim sadly passed away suddenly on Thursday, March 6.

Leah’s passing has left her family, friends, and the wider Leitrim community in deep shock and sorrow.

Her official death notice on RIP.ie described her as "greatly missed by her heartbroken parents Gerard and Anne Marie, sisters Katie, Sarah, and Mia, granny Mary, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, neighbours, and her many great friends."

Mohill Community College, where Leah was a past student, was among those to share their grief. Teacher Natalie Flanagan recalled, "I am so shocked and saddened to learn of Leah’s passing. I taught her some years ago in MCC, and it is lovely to see what a beautiful young woman she had become. My profound sympathy to all those who mourn her devastating loss."

Aileen McGirl, also from Mohill Community College, described Leah as "such a beautiful young lady inside and out" before adding: "Thinking of you all at this most difficult time. May Leah’s gentle soul rest in eternal peace."

Staff and management of Jamestown Preschool, who remembered Leah’s "beautiful smile and bubbly personality," expressed their deep sympathy to her parents and sisters. "We will always remember Leah’s beautiful smile and bubbly personality. Keeping you all in our thoughts during this difficult time."

Friends and neighbours also shared their sympathies, with one mourner writing: "In our thoughts & prayers at this very difficult time. A beautiful girl taken far too soon. God bless you all in the days ahead."

Another condolence read: "Deepest condolences to all of Leah’s family. She was a beautiful and kind girl inside and out. My thoughts and prayers are with all the family. Rest in peace, Leah."

In honour of Leah, donations are being accepted for the SADS (Sudden Adult Death Syndrome) Foundation.

Leah's Funeral Mass took place at St Mary’s Church in Annaduff on Monday morning, with cremation afterwards at Lakeland’s Crematorium in Cavan.

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