By Dionne Meehan
THE FUNERAL took place in Lifford on Thursday of Gillian Gallagher-Lynch, Tober, Ballindrait, Lifford.
The mum-of-one and owner of Blades Barbers Elite in Letterkenny died suddenly on Friday, June 7.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on Thursday morning, June 13 in St Patrick’s Church, Murlog, Lifford, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Addressing the congregation during his homily, Father Colm O’Doherty spoke of the profound shock that surrounded Gillian’s sudden death.
“One common comment that has been expressed about Gillian, however, was one about her personality which was one of her greatest gifts, a gift that she used so well over the years in her various career moves and studies.
“She had made so many friends over the years through her work because of her wonderful personality.
“And going to Gillian for a haircut was not just a chance to get your hair cut, but also a chance to maybe catch up on all the news of the day or to find out what was happening,” he said.
Describing her as a real “people person”, Fr O’Doherty said she could hold her own in a conversation on any topic from sport to fashion, which she was particularly fond of.
“She certainly knew how to dress up very stylish indeed, probably the reason why so many just called in to say hello to her,” he said.
But Gillian’s greatest love was her family.
“One of eight siblings, Gillian had to deal, along with her late sister Donna, with six boys in the house.
“Maybe that is why she was so good at keeping us men in our place,” Fr O’Doherty joked.
Despite growing up in a very happy household, she experienced some very sad times down through the years.
“Gillian along with the other members of the family knew some very sad times over the years with the death of her late husband Kevin and also the death of her sister Donna,” Fr O’Doherty said.
“These partings are never easy.
“Sometimes they can be so overwhelming that it is hard to pick up the pieces again.
“But, because of the love that Gillian received from her family and her friends, she moved forward with the business of living with hope,” he said.
Drawing his homily to a close, Fr O’Doherty expressed his deepest and sincerest condolences to Ms Gallagher-Lynch’s son Corey.
Meanwhile, tributes are continuing to be paid to the Letterkenny barber.
Blades Barbers Elite have remembered their work colleague as full of “love, thoughtfulness and kindness”.
They also paid tribute to her skill and talent as a barber.
“It is with a deep sadness and heavy heart that we announce the sudden passing of our much-loved Gillian.
“Gillian will be deeply missed by her son/best friend Corey and Megan, and the Blades family. We were so fortunate enough to have had her in our lives.
“Her love, kindness, thoughtfulness and fun will always guide us through these difficult days.
“Gillian’s generosity, talent and skill as a barber made Blades a successful cornerstone of the Port Road, Letterkenny community.”
The spokesperson said Blades Barbers Elite will be closed until at least June 18.
“As we move through the next few days, Blades will be closed until June 18. If there is a longer period we will update you. We love you Gillian,” the post signed off.
Her death is deeply regretted by her heartbroken son Corey, parents Muriel and Seamus, daughter-in-law Megan, brothers, nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles and family circle.
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