Shock and sadness at passing of popular Tullamore health store owner

NEWS of the passing of Barbara Ryan has been greeted with shock and sadness in Tullamore and further afield.

Barbara, who had been ill for some time, ran the hugely popular Mother Earth on William Street having taken over the business in 2002.

The store quickly became a much loved haven of warmth and wellness. Always pleasant, friendly and caring, Barbara and her trusty assistant Alice created a sanctuary of chats, laughs and easy friendships.

When Barbara became ill, her many friends and patrons prayed that she would make a speedy recovery. However, with the closure of the premises on March 1 an important chapter in the history of William Street ended. The vacant premises is a heartfelt reminder of happier times when it was a hive of activity.

Barbara took great pride in her work, and was constantly studying herbal remedies and vitamins and did many courses in various therapies.

She took a keen interest in people and loved helping them to find a suitable remedy. She enjoyed listening and getting to know her customers. ''She felt listening to them was just as important'' said her daughter Sammy.

Daughter of the late Ann and Bill Tobin who ran the Lantern on Kilbride Street, business was in her blood and so it was natural for her to branch out and set up her own outlet.

Barbara's untimely death will leave a serious void which will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Tributes have been pouring in for Barbara on the RIP website, one person described her saying. ''Barbara was a beautiful person who will be sadly missed. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace.''

Another said, ''an amazing lady who lit up every room she entered. She had a wonderful attitude, a great zest for life and a positive effect on all who were lucky to meet her. Barbara was someone who always made you feel better for meeting her. May she light up heaven the same way she lit up this earth. Sincere condolences to all her family- we will remember her with great joy.''

Still another said, ''it's heart-rending to hear about Barbara's early passing from this world. She was truly a wonderful person, gifted with both ease and depth of conversation. She effortlessly touched so many lives with her kindness and warmth. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.''

Barbara will repose at her home on Wednesday from 4pm until rosary at 8pm, Her funeral mass will be celebrated on Thursday at 10am in the Church of the Assumption, Tullamore with burial afterwards in Clonminch Cemetery.

She is survived by her daughter Sammy & her son Steven (Rooster), Sammy’s partner Mark, her two amazing grandsons Harry & Nathan, her ex-husband Cliddy, her brothers & sisters, Michael, Mary, Liam, Bridget (Bid), Pat, Liz & Sean, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, her nieces & nephews, relatives and her many dear friends.

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