Tearful funeral scenes as care staff line streets for Mary Holt after Offaly double murder amid ‘heart of gold’ tributes

The Offaly woman was set to go on a pilgrimage to Međugorje next March
THERE were tearful scenes as arson victim Mary Holt was remembered for her “heart of gold” when she was laid to rest today.

Mourners gathered at Saint Mary’s Church in Edenderry, Co Offaly for the 60-year-old, who was murdered alongside little Tadgh Farrell last week in a fire attack on their home on December 6.

Her funeral cortege stopped at Ofalia House care home, where Ms Holt had worked since the age of 15, on its way to the church.

Staff dressed in scrubs formed a guard of honour as the hearse pulled into the grounds.

Addressing the congregation, Ms Holt’s niece, Tiffany, told how Mary had a “heart of gold” and “cared for everyone”.

She said: “She adored her work colleagues and residents in Ofalia House.

“Mary built up a great relationship with all these people and did her job for 45 years. She loved caring for others.

“It was a big part of her life. Mary loved her family and her friends.

“She was happy with the small things in life, a cup of tea and a chat.”

Four-year-old Tadgh’s funeral was held on Friday, and mourners today heard how Ms Holt “built up a beautiful relationship” with the youngster and his siblings.

She said: “She treated them like her own. Mary loved those kids. 

“Always loved being around them. But Mary had a beautiful life on this earth, surrounded by loved ones.”

Staff from Ofalia House remembered Ms Holt for her “gentleness and love”. 

They said: “Mary was a gentle soul with kindness and compassion for every resident, every family and every member of staff.

“For 45 years, a dedicated service, her gift to Ofalia House. We will miss her deeply. 

“Others with gentleness and love for so many years. May God welcome her into eternal rest and reward her kindness and faithful service dearly.

“May the memory of her compassion and her warm spirit inspire us to live as she did. Caring for others with a gorgeous heart.”

HEARTBROKEN COMMUNITY

Fr Greg Corcoran said the community are left in shock with “heavy hearts” following the tragedy.

He said: “Mary’s passing, like Tadhg’s, has came too soon, in a way that feels unfair and deeply painful.”

The priest told mourners how Mary’s life was “quietly shaped by care”.  

He said: “She started working in the old hospital at the tender age of 15 years.  

“Never one for the spotlight, but at the bedside: helping, comforting, noticing the small things. That kind of work tells us a lot about a person. 

‘SHOWED UP FOR OTHERS’ 

“You don’t become a carer unless you have patience, compassion, and a generous heart. 

“Day after day, year after year, Mary showed up for others when they were most in need.

“Indeed there is very few in this area who haven’t experienced the love, the care and attention of the staff of Uibh Fhaile house, through a loved one or family member.”

The Offaly woman was set to go on a pilgrimage to Međugorje next March. 

Fr Corcoran continued: “Mary’s death leaves an empty place: in her family, among her friends, in Uibh Fhaile house, and in the lives of those that she cared for.  

“Grief today may feel mixed with shock, anger, confusion, and deep sadness. That too is part of love. We grieve because Mary mattered.”