'We were lucky to know you' - Tributes paid after death of young Offaly school teacher

Tributes are flooding in this week after the untimely death of beloved Offaly woman and school teacher Liz Cahill.

Liz, originally from Ballincor, Shinrone, Co Offaly, and a teacher in Co Westmeath, passed away this week in the care of Milford Care Centre in Limerick and is being remembered as a "beloved colleague, teacher, mentor and friend."

Liz was a teacher at St Joseph's Secondary School in Rochfortbridge and lived in Raharney, Co Westmeath with her husband Denis.

St Joseph's, where Liz taught Home Economics, were among the first to pay tribute. They issued a lengthy statement describing her love for her students, as well as her "warmth, sense of fun, passion and goodness."

"It is hard to put into words how heartbroken our school community is at the loss of Liz Cahill, our beloved colleague, teacher, mentor and friend," the statement read.

"Liz was a past pupil of St Joseph's and a brilliant one at that. It seemed so fitting when she returned to us as a teacher, bringing with her that special energy and zest for school life that she had in abundance.

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"Liz loved St Joseph's. She made it her business to get to know her students and she excelled in the classroom. She was at her happiest in the cut and thrust of the thriving Home Economics kitchen and her students' results spoke for themselves. She brought that same passion and prowess to the training fields, passing on her supreme talent as a camogie player to those lucky enough to have her coach them.

"In later years she became a brilliant Year Head, combining all of her many talents to lead and look after her year group which she did with such accomplishment.

"Along with all of that important school business Liz brought an extra special something else to the table, her kindness. She looked out for those students who needed extra encouragement and she was the first on hand to help if any of her colleagues needed it. Liz was so interested in people and she was a steadfast friend to so many of us and each of us treasured a different and special relationship with her.

"It brought us all such joy to see her so happy with Denis, the love of her life, along with her beautiful and very much adored little boys Cormac and Donnacha.

"It is so hard to believe that she won't be physically amongst us again but she has left a legacy that will last forever within the walls of St Joseph's and in the hearts of all of those who were lucky enough to be taught by her and to teach and work alongside her.

"Rest in peace dearest Lizzie. The person you are to us; your warmth, your sense of fun, your passion and your goodness will always be remembered. You are a part of our history and will remain so forevermore. You have taught us many lessons that we will continue to pass on to those we teach and work with. We were so lucky to know you, to love you and to have you as part of our community and you will always be one of us," the glowing tribute concluded.

Other friends and family also paid tribute through RIP.ie. One said: "Deepest sympathy to Denis, Donnacha, Cormac, Marion, Dinny, all the Cahill, Carroll & Shaw family. Liz was a beautiful friendly fun person, with a big smile. I always enjoyed our hurling & camogie chats with Liz. Liz will be dearly missed. Thinking & praying for you all at this difficult time."

Another person wrote: "Our sincerest sympathies to Dennis, Donnacha, Cormac, Kathleen and all the Shaw and Cahill families on the tragic passing of Elizabeth. She was admired by all and has left the world a better place. Lord rest her soul."

A third poignant message read: "I wish to express my deepest of condolences to all family and friends of Liz at this time. Liz was a wonderful person and made a lasting impression on me during my time as a pupil in St Joseph's. I will be forever grateful for all that I learned from her and all she helped me achieve. Rest in Peace Liz."

Funeral Arrangements

Reposing on Wednesday in Treacys Funeral Home, Shinrone (R42 E125) from 4pm until 7pm. Removal on Thursday to St.Patrick's Church, The Pike, Ballingarry (E53 H771) for Funeral mass at 12pm followed by burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.