Sad passing of popular Ballybofey woman, Kathleen Merritt

People in the Twin Towns and particularly members of Finn Valley Athletic Club are in mourning this week at the news of the untimely passing of 59-year-old Kathleen Merritt, formerly of Ard McCarron, Ballybofey on Monday night last.

She died at St Joseph's Hospice, Hackney, London following a prolonged illness.

In an emotional post on its Facebook page, the club pays tribute to the former member adding she enjoyed a lifetime involvement in athletics with Finn Valley AC beginning at age seven during a miserable day at a cross-country event in Dunfanaghy.

"She became particularly proficient at shot put holding the Donegal and club record always though based in London in recent years keeping in touch always loyal and ever-present with a smile when required for the team.

"She was introduced to the sport by her late father Liam, a former Ulster cycling champion and Finn Valley AC committee member. When Patsy and Rosaleen McGonagle visited recently to say goodbye to her, people and occasions and fun had over the years were recalled, so many moments of friendship really.

"It was always going to be hard to say goodbye and walk away. We will always retain the happiest memories of the girl who began running races on the Green at Ard McCarron."

In recent years Kathleen was involved as a volunteer at the London Olympics 2012 and at the 2017 World Championships again in London where she was the liaison person with the South African team.

"She was a friend to so many of us and in addition to Martin and her family we will miss her terribly May she rest in peace. To her partner Martin and the Merritt family, we extend our condolences," added the tribute.

Funeral arrangements are to be announced later.