'Ray of sunshine' Aisling remembered for her ‘huge smile, her kindness and compassion’

A popular County Derry woman who passed away after battling an illness has been remembered for her ‘huge smile, her kindness and compassion’. 

Aisling O’Neill passed away peacefully at Foyle Hospice on Friday (June 13) surrounded by her loving family. 

The Feeny woman was well-known throughout the area, particularly for her voluntary work. 

A death notice described her as the ‘beloved daughter of Breige and Gerard and loving sister of Colleen (Dani), Aideen, Gearóid (Vanessa) and Micheál (Márie)’.

Leading the tributes to the Banagher woman today was Derry GAA. 

“Aisling, who volunteered tirelessly alongside her mother Breige, was a familiar and friendly presence at Owenbeg and Celtic Park,” a statement read. 

“A kind woman and a dedicated supporter of her club (St Mary’s GAC Banagher) and county, Aisling will be deeply missed by all in Derry and the wider GAA community. 

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”

Aisling’s own club, St Mary's GAC Banagher, where she was a former player and camogie coach, added: “Everyone at St Mary's GAC Banagher, send our deepest sympathy to the O'Neill Family at the sad passing of Aisling (former player and camogie coach). Beloved daughter of Briege and Gerard (present executive member), loving sister of Colleen, Aideen, Gearóid and Micheál (past players and coaches), devoted aunt of Caragh and Caoimhin (current underage players), dear granddaughter of Anne. We extend our sympathy to the O'Neill and McGrellis families and wider family circle at this very sad time. 

“Mary Queen of the Gael Pray For Her.”

Both St Patrick’s College in Dungiven and St John’s PS, Dernaflaw, where Aisling had worked as a classroom assistant also paid tributes.

In a statement, St John’s said: “Aisling was more than just a support in the classroom, she was a guiding light for pupils and staff alike.  Her good humour and patience will be remembered by everyone who worked with her.” 

Aisling was also heavily involved in the local HOPE camps in Banagher and Claudy parishes over the years.

Paying tribute, a spokesperson for Banagher HOPE Camp said: “The committee of Banagher HOPE Camp are deeply saddened at the passing of our dear friend and committee member Aisling.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to her parents, Gerard and Briege; her brothers and sisters, Aideen, Colleen, Gearóid and Micheál ; her granny Ann; her niece and nephew Caragh and Caoimhin; the O’Neill and McGrellis families and wider family circle. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in these very difficult days.

“From the HOPE camp committee was formed in 2020 until her last days, Aisling was a vibrant, energetic committee member who gave of her time, energy and ideas so freely to benefit the children of our parish.

“Aisling was our gifted camp photographer, our experienced social media coordinator and brought in so many camp volunteers from her wide circle of family and friends.

“Aisling, thank you so much for your contribution to HOPE. We are honoured to have known you and to have had you as part of our team. You were a ray of sunshine in our camp and we will miss you so much.”

Claudy and Craigbane HOPE Camp added: “Our committee and young leaders are deeply saddened by the death of our friend Aishling. Aishling has been part of Hope Claudy / Craigbane for many years and has had a huge impact on the children of our parish. Her huge smile, her kindness and compassion will be remembered by us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. Rest in eternal peace.” 

Aisling’s funeral will take place on Monday, June 16 with Requiem Mass taking place in St Joseph’s Church, Fincarn at 2pm.

Mourners are asked to ‘wear a splash of colour’ in celebration of Aisling’s life.