The late Imelda McLoone to be laid to rest in Ballyshannon on Saturday

The town of Ballyshannon was numbed on Tuesday morning when news broke of the passing of one of its most cherished and loved citizens, Mrs Imelda McLoone.

Only six weeks ago, Imelda (née Kelly) lost her beloved husband Michael, the former County Manager and decorated footballer, who was known the length and breadth of Donegal. Imelda and Michael lived at Abbeylane, Ballyshannon, and she was formerly of Ballymahon, Co Longford.

Michael had always said that he would have achieved nothing in life if he hadn't Imelda by his side. Her enduring legacy will be the beautiful warmth and friendliness she bestowed on everyone she met.

When William Allingham wrote of 'the kindly spot, the friendly town where everyone is known', he must have had Imelda in mind, as she always had a kind word for everyone in Ballyshannon. She dedicated her life to looking after others, be it countless charity organisations, the Abbey Bay Residents or one-to-one assistance to those who needed it most.

Over the years, friends and family of Imelda often described her as 'the glue that held us together'. In simple terms, this metaphor refers to a person who provides emotional support, organises events, facilitates communication and ensures everyone feels included and valued.

In one short sentence, these qualities describe Imelda to a tee, as her helping hand and words of wisdom impacted and made life better for so many. On Monday last, she was working diligently on preparing Michael's memorial cards and preparing words of thanks and gratitude for those who helped him during his illness. As ever, Imelda was thinking of others even though she must have felt quite unwell herself.

Survived by her children Michael, David, Philip and Caroline, her daughters-in-law Elaine, Aoife and Louise and son-in-law Noel. Adored by her grandchildren, Aaron, Kate, Daniel, Nicole, Emily and Conall. Brother Mike (Washington DC) and in-laws Catherine McLoone, Catherine Kelly, Peter and Liz, Paul and Marie, nieces, nephews, all her extended family and many friends.

Reposing at her residence, Abbeylane, Ballyshannon, F94 F6D7, Thursday from 4pm to 8pm and Friday from 3pm to 7pm. Removal on Saturday, January 17, from her residence for 11am Funeral Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Ballyshannon, followed by burial afterwards in the Abbey Cemetery.

The house shall be private to the family outside of reposing times and on the morning of the funeral. The funeral Mass shall be streamed live on St. Patrick's Church page.

The family are immensely grateful to all who looked after Imelda in recent years and for all their support during the recent bereavement of Michael. The McLoone Family would like to thank you for your support and prayers at this sad time.