Tributes have been paid to a popular young teacher from Cork who passed away following a brave battle with illness.
Christine O’Brien from Glanmire passed away surrounded by her loving family at the weekend, in the care of staff at Marymount Hospice.
Christine was a teacher at St Mary’s High School in Midleton and a talented GAA player who played with the Glanmire Ladies Football Club. The club has led tributes to Christine, posting a heartfelt tribute on social media.
“It is with a heavy heart and sadness that we inform you of the passing of one of our players, Christine O’Brien,” they said.
“Christine has been a member of our club for many years and was part of our current Junior squad. Her bright smile will be sorely missed by all.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Ann, Terry, Tadhg, Austin and the extended O’Brien family at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.”
The social media post was soon flooded with tributes from Christine’s teammates and coaches, with one person writing: “Had the privilege of coaching Christine for the last number of years with Glanmire Ladies Football Club. She was a lovely, genuine young lady who was an inspiration to all of us.
“Christine was also an unbelievable role model to all the younger ladies, who really looked up to her.”
Another person added: “This is truly so sad. Christine was a beautiful, talented and fabulous young lady. She was a wonderful credit to her family. My sincere sympathies go out to her family and teammates at this very difficult time. May she rest in peace.”
A number of Glanmire players highlighted Christine’s kindness in welcoming them to the team, with one person saying: “Sending condolences to Christines close friends and family. When I first started playing with the junior team and knew no body, I vividly remember Christine making sure I felt welcome and took me under her wing – this always stuck with me and summed up her kind and beautiful soul. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”
Christine worked as a teacher at St. Mary’s High School where she made a huge impression on her students, with a number of parents of her pupils sharing stories of her warmth and kindness.
“Words cannot express the depth of sorrow we feel for you on the loss of your beautiful, precious, fun-loving, kind and loving daughter Christine,” one mourner said.
“As part of my daughter’s TY trip, Christine went to Delphi with the class. The students just loved her, as did everyone who had the pleasure of knowing or working with her. She was an exceptional teacher with a radiant, beautiful smile, loved by all.
“May God – in the knowledge of Christine’s goodness, kindness and love – grant her family, partner, colleagues, neighbours and friends the solace, consolation and strength needed at this most difficult time.”