Funeral of Lorna Woodnutt hears 'her beautiful smile lit up everywhere she went'

The funeral of Lorna Woodnutt who was killed in an attack in her home in Offaly on September 30, took place this morning, October 12, in the Church of the Assumption Tullamore

To the strains of 'Nearer My God to Thee' the remains of Ms Woodnutt were conveyed into the church, flanked by members of her family and friends.

Chief Celebrant Fr Whittaker, Parish Priest of Rahan, extended a warm welcome to the Woodnutt and Kearney families and all her work colleagues, neighbours and friends from near and far.

''Today we gather as a faith community and we are deep in sadness. We grieve, we pray. we hurt. This is the heavy price we pay for love,'' said Fr Whittaker

Everyone there would have their own memories of Lorna, said Fr Whittker who he described as ''beautiful inside and out.''

These are memories to be held and remembered forever. Her goodness, kindness, friendship and love. Memories of the beautiful person Lorna was on the inside and outside as well. She was gifted with a warm personality. Her beautiful smile lit up everywhere she went as did her wit and her good humour.

He said Lorna was loved by all of her family and she enjoyed all family gatherings and celebrations. She especially enjoyed the time she spent with her nieces and nephews when they went on day trips, movie nights, or concerts.

She was was honest, loving, caring, a giver and a supporter to her family, friends, neighbours and work colleagues alike,

Lorna had travelled widely to England, America and throughout Ireland and she possessed a great general knowledge from her time in America and England, said Fr Whittaker.

She loved fashion and dressing up. She also enjoyed running and exercising at home and going out for a walk with her dogs Charlie and Toby. Fr Whittaker said she loved her two dogs so much that when Charlie got hurt she bought a buggy for him so he could accompany her on her walks.

Fr Whittaker said she took a great interest in education and had many qualifications and always encouraged others to avail of educational opportunities.

At the end of Mass, Lorna's favourite Psalm 23 was read.

Lorna was then taken to Clonminch cemetery where she was laid to rest.

Lorna Woodnutt was predeceased by her father Barry. She will be sadly missed by her loving husband Micheál, stepson Mike, sisters Jackie, Roberta and Rachael, brother Derek, mother Magdalene, brothers in law, sisters in law, Emmet and Karolina, nieces and nephews Jade, Jessica, Rachael, Darragh and Harper, relatives, her many wonderful friends and neighbours.