An elderly widow of 89 years, discovered dead under questionable conditions at her residence in Co Tipperary the previous weekend, has been commemorated as an “exceptional woman” who spread “light, mirth and affection” during her funeral Mass.
Josephine ‘Josie’ Ray’s remains were stumbled upon by a family member within her house in St Joseph’s Park, Nenagh last Sunday afternoon. It is assumed that she passed away due to suffocation and the ongoing probe into her demise is maintaining a “powerful lead,” as per the gardaí.
Hailing from the hamlet of Carney, Ms Ray was fondly called the ‘Carney Blonde’ owing to her fascination with style and elegance. Rosie, her granddaughter, said last Friday at St Mary of the Rosary Church in Nenagh that Ms Ray relished being fashionable and took pleasure in everything life presented to her.
“All of us knew my grandmother Josie as a woman of class. She was fond of style. She loved her ornaments. She was an amazing woman who adored elegance,” Rosie remarked. “She enjoyed dancing and never missed a town event, always accompanying my mother, Sarah. She was ever ready for a laugh and a dance.”
She added that her grandma, predeceased by her spouse Paddy and daughter Joan, made it a point to dedicate time to those she loved, her pals and neighbours.
“Josie was genuinely unique. A real lady. We will eternally love you,” Rosie asserted.
Fr Pat Gilbert, who performed the Mass, stated that the “collective sorrow” for Ms Ray was “profound and raw” throughout the community.
The sudden and tragic loss of Josie has left us shocked and heartbroken,” remarked Mr. Gilbert, “Josie Ray was a woman extraordinary in nature who was renowned all across Nenagh, particularly in St Joseph’s Park. Her signature blonde hair and stylish persona were as integral to her identity as her bright smile that made her a beacon in our community and town.”
Mr. Gilbert further described Ms. Ray as a distinct personality who made a lasting impression on everyone she came across. “She was a fantastic neighbour, a loyal ally, and a pillar of our tightly bonded community. Her dedication to her kinship was deeply evident, raising her family with utmost love and care in St Joseph’s Park.” Gilbert continued, “She took immense joy and pride in her daughters – Sarah, Frances, Mary, and Carmel, as well as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The bond she had forged with them was unyielding and her affection for them was perceptible in all her deeds.”
The memorial service concluded with a performance of Goodbye Venice Goodbye by Joe Dolan, after which Ms. Ray was laid to rest in the Killodiernan Cemetery.