Moving tributes at funeral of Mayo woman who died in drowning tragedy
The late Cathy Hughes.
There were heartfelt and moving tributes today at the funeral of a Mayo woman who lost her life in a tragic drowning accident.
Westport-native Cathy Hughes passed away on Sunday following the accident at Old Head. Aged in her 60s, she was a member of one of Westport’s most successful and best-known families.
Funeral Mass took place at Christ the King, Salthill this afternoon.
Fr Gerry Jennings told mourners it was a “tough day” for everyone who knew Cathy, particularly her children William and Isabelle.
“We were all struck by the suddenness of the tragedy,” he stated.
Fr Jennings said Cathy was a very “special” woman who was “part of the treasures of life.”
A hugely talented artist, Ms Hughes had been living in Salthill, Co Galway but regularly returned to her native county and was a frequent visitor to Westport and Louisburgh.
One of a family of 13, the landscapes of Louisburgh and Old Head influenced much of her art. Examples of her artwork adorned the altar.
Cathy will be dearly missed by her children William and Isabelle Greene, daughter-in-law Anne Carey, son-in-law Seán Treacy, grandchildren Pierce, Abby, Honora and Imogen.
She is deeply cherished by her sisters Anne (Joe) McGovern, Marion Hughes, Orla (Eamonn) O'Carroll and Eleanor (Kevin) Moran; brothers Cathal, Patrick (Olive), Harry, Owen (Karen), Richard (Jean), Vincent and Declan (Catherine) Hughes; sister-in-law Maria Hughes; Ronnie Greene as well as all the wider Hughes, Kelly and Greene families, and her many friends.
The eulogy was delivered by Cathy's sister Anne. She described the “heartbreaking” moment that the family learned of their loved one’s death on Sunday.
Her sister said Cathy known as “Chatty Cathy” during her schooldays was a devoted mother and grandmother who was a “Warm, vibrant, religious, glamourous, elegant Granny.”
Anne said Cathy “sparkled in company” and was at her happiest with a glass of champagne in her hand. Her sister said Cathy adored reading, travelling, fly-fishing, hiking and walking the prom. She said Cathy loved colour, the sea, and loved to swim.
“As we bid farewell Cathy, let us remember her for the joy she brought into our lives,” said Anne.
