Greta Price-Martin, a 22-year-old cyclist who tragically lost her life in a traffic accident in Dún Laoghaire, is fondly recalled as a “blessing” to her friends and partner, and as her parents’ “kind and gentle” daughter. The unfortunate incident took place at peak traffic time on a Wednesday morning, involving a lorry at the intersection of Glenageary Road Upper, Mounttown Road Lower, and Kill Avenue in southern Dublin.
Before the incident, Greta, originally from Templetown in Cooley, County Louth, had just completed her freshman year at the Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art and Design (IADT) and had embarked on a career in film production. The accident occurred as she was cycling to work.
Her father, Breffni, shared fond recollections of Greta at her funeral service. Born on March 9th, 2002, Greta was remembered as a happy, carefree baby, growing up to be a kind and gentle child who was also fiercely determined and opposed to injustice. Her father described her lineage as one of strong women from both parental sides.
Film-making and photography were her great passions, and she truly blossomed when she started her course at the Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design, and Technology (IADT). Her father said that it was there that she met Charlie, the person she proudly referred to as “her lifemate”. According to her father, Greta was content after landing a job in television, and she appeared to be on the cusp of realizing her dreams. Despite her life being cut short, Greta is remembered for accomplishing a great deal in her short time.
Greta leaves behind her parents, Breffni and Vanessa, her siblings Ruth, Jack and Louis, partner Charlie, her grandmother, and extended family and friends. Her final rites were held at the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold’s Cross, Dublin at 4 pm on a Monday, followed by her cremation. In attendance among the mourners was the Minister for Transport from the Green Party, Eamon Ryan.
In his eulogy for his partner, Charlie expressed, “Greta was a profound blessing to my life, our time together was too short but intensely enjoyable. I’m struggling to comprehend her departure. I love her dearly.” Greta’s brother Jack chose to pay tribute with a recital of Patti Smith’s “Kimberly,” referring to it as “a poem for my kid sister.”
Mia, Greta’s closest companion, portrayed her as a person who approached life with a lightheartedness, never too worried about minor issues. “Greta was a vibrant soul, easily the most gifted person,” she stated. Mia painted a vivid image of Greta’s childhood, frequently seen in her seal-inspired wetsuit at the sailing club, always anticipating the after-school sausages, marking the beginning of their friendship.
Both attending secondary school together, their bond strengthened as hockey teammates and even more so in class. Subsequently moving to Dublin for further studies, Greta evolved into an irresistible personality with a magnetic charm, shared Mia.
Mia fondly recalled Greta, in her characteristic cowboy hat, casually smoking and sipping a double whiskey sour, surrounded by an intrigued crowd, drawn by her humorous anecdotes. One unforgettable experience was when they traveled to the U.S. in their freshman year. “It was always interesting being with Greta. She was a cheerful soul that could easily lighten up your day, and I have countless fond memories with her. Everyone here has a Greta story that will surely make you laugh out loud,” Mia reflected.
Shying away from traditional floral tributes, Greta’s family suggested that well-wishers instead contribute to the Safe Cycling Ireland charity.