Heartbreak as mother buried alongside newborn baby at tearful funeral | World | News
A touching and tearful tribute was held on Tuesday to remember a much-loved local teacher who died suddenly just a day after her newborn baby. Aoife Bird died in Co., Ireland, on Wednesday, November 26, after falling ill suddenly just hours after her baby Ailbha passed away. He died in Meath.
according to Irish MirrorAoife was a beloved Spanish, Business, and special education teacher at a local public school, where she was said to be “an inspiration to her students.” Aoife’s sister, Róisín, took to the streets with a crowd of mourners and spoke heartbreaking words. He added: “Losing my sister has been one of the toughest things we have ever had to face.
“This is something we never dreamed of doing and even now it feels surreal but we know Aoife understands exactly how important she is to all of us.
“He did absolutely everything he could to save himself, because that’s what he was: strong, determined, stubborn in the best way, but he was also too good for this world, too kind, too naive, with a tough exterior.”
“We promise that your legacy will survive each day. We promise that Daithí will always know her mother… how proud you are of her, how much joy she brought to your life.”
“We know that baby Ailbhe is in your arms forever, and I’m so sorry you couldn’t do more for you two… And don’t worry, we’ll take care of Jim.”
In a touching eulogy, the priest who led the ceremony said: “We will always remember who was the greatest gift of love Jim and Daithí could ever receive, who will forever be a baby who in those few precious months gave hope, joy and love far beyond his life.”
“We will remember a young teacher who enlightened and inspired his students, a fun colleague in the staff room, a friend in the show jumping arena and a determined competitor, representing his district and even his country.
“We could see what lovely people his devastated parents, Margaret and Peter, were, while his heartbroken grandparents, Mick, Kathleen and Aoife’s siblings, each in their own way, have inherited many of his characteristics.
“The siblings have fond memories of growing up together, especially since Christmas Eve, when they would stay up waiting for Santa to arrive, with Aoife insisting they hang out in the same room, which she held on to even when she moved to Meath.”
“Just as Ashton inherited Aoife’s kindness, Aoife would do anything for anyone – a willingness to help, a generous heart, someone who gets up and keeps going.
“Aoife has always been highly motivated, always going after what she wanted, and this quality and motivation inspired not only Siobhan but everyone who was so lucky to share Aoife’s life and dreams.”
“It is impossible not to be inspired by the loving care and devotion you show to each other. It is no wonder that every young family here in the community holds you and your family in the highest regard and respect.
“We have already seen your mother’s incredible resilience, which will undoubtedly be a rock and unwavering support for you in the future.”
“I want to reassure you, and the families and friends of all people in Waterford, Kilkenny, Ashbourne and everywhere, that this church of St Brigid’s will continue to embrace you, under our care, as a church community where faith and love are put into practice and where the memory of Aoife and Ailbhe is lived out.”
