Heartbreaking tributes have poured in for the woman, who was well known in the area
AN IRISH woman who died in a “tragic accident” at sea while trying to save a family dog in Wicklow has been named.

Wendy Maxine Herbst passed away on Saturday afternoon at Magherabeg Beach.

She entered the water at the Wicklow beach, after the family dog got into trouble in choppy waters.

It is understood she then got into difficulty and the Greystones and Wicklow Coast Guard rushed to the scene at 2pm, along with a helicopter from Dublin.

Following a major rescue operation a body was recovered from the water at around 4pm.

Wendy is survived by her “loving husband” Michael Eamon and her children Marco, Siobhan, Fiona, Juliet and Orson.

She will also be remembered by her ten grandchildren.

In a heartbreaking RIP notice the family said Wendy was “taken too soon”.

Funeral details are yet to be announced, however the family requested donations be made to Wicklow RNLI Lifeboat Station if desired.

The Herbst family is well known in the area, operating Kilpoole Hill Farm and Polo Wicklow.

Wendy Herbst had previously organised a 5km swim event in Wicklow and volunteered as a fundraiser for Wicklow RNLI.

A steady stream of tributes has poured in for the popular lady following her passing over the weekend.

TOUCHING TRIBUTES

One person shared how “welcoming” the family had been at their farm and remembered Herbst’s “delightful company”.

They said: “I spent many, many years in the delightful company of Wendy who was so welcoming into the warm home of the Herbst family for so many polo weekends.

“So many wonderful memories and experiences with the First Lady of Herbst farm.

“She will be profoundly missed. Our sincere sympathies to the family at this tragic time.”

Another said: “RIP to such a lovely lady.”

‘ALWAYS SO CARING’

A third added: “An incredible woman, a true powerhouse. Many fond memories working with her at Polo Wicklow.”

Another said: “She was a beautiful person in looks and spirit and extremely kind and friendly to us in our Polo days.”

And a fifth mourner said: “The more special a person makes our lives, the harder it is for us to let them go.

“For this reason I know that saying goodbye to Wendy will be the hardest sorrow to bear. We have so many wonderful memories of Wendy, always so caring and so welcoming.”