THE funeral will take place in Falcarragh tomorrow of Martina Rafferty whose sudden and unexpected passing was met with deep sadness.
Martina (née McGee) of Newtown, Falcarragh, was a very popular and much respected member of the community.
Martina worked in the hospitality industry in Donegal for many years and tributes have been pouring in for her family and many friends this week.
Her former colleagues at the Waterfront Hotel, which she joined as sales and marketing manager in 2017, and where she worked as general manager from 2018 to 2025, led the tributes, describing her as someone with “boundless enthusiasm and vibrant glow”.
The tribute read: “She will be sadly missed by our clients who Martina had left a resonating impression upon and her work colleagues who are just devastated at her passing.”
Donegal Tourism has also expressed sadness and described Martina as a “passionate advocate for Donegal and a true ambassador for our tourism sector”.
They added that she worked tirelessly to promote Donegal, “championing Donegal’s people, places, businesses, and communities with enthusiasm, pride, and unwavering commitment”.
John McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Donegal County Council and Chair of Donegal Tourism CLG, said: “Martina brought energy, vision, and dedication to everything she did. She firmly believed in the power of collaboration and understood that by working together, we could achieve far more than we ever could alone.”
Garry Martin, Deputy Chief Executive of Donegal County Council, added: “Martina’s contribution to tourism in Donegal was immense and far-reaching.
“She was a passionate and enthusiastic advocate and someone who always championed the strengths of our county and the very best of Donegal with great pride.
“Her positivity, generosity and commitment to promoting Donegal inspired many people across the tourism sector.
“Martina leaves behind a remarkable legacy, and she will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of working with her.”
Martina Rafferty (née Mc Gee).
Martina’s remains are reposing at her parents home in Ballina, Falcarragh (F92 W3X0), until 9pm tonight (Wednesday).
House private after Rosary and tomorow moring for family and close friends only.
Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday afternoon at 1pm in St Finian’s Church, Falcarragh, with burial in the adjacent cemetery. Members of the tourism industry will provide a guard of honour outside the church.
The Funeral Mass can be viewed live on Kieran Roarty Funeral Director’s Facebook page and on the church webcam via MCN Media.
Martina will be sadly missed by her husband Gavin, son Eli, parents John Joe and Mary Teresa, sister Maggie (Paddy), brother Shane (Meg), nieces Laura and Róisín, nephews Shaun and Johnny, and extended family and friends.