THERE has been widespread sadness following the death of one of Enniskillen’s true townies, Mrs. Fanchea Irvine, who was born between the bridges in Dame Street, Enniskillen.

Fanchea died suddenly, aged 81, at the South West Acute Hospital on September 28.

She was the youngest daughter of Walter and Josie Towner, of Dame Street, and was educated in Abbey Street School and later at the Convent.

She spent her younger years working in various homes throughout the town, looking after children, and as a general helper, where she formed close bonds with the families she worked with.

In August, 1962, she married Frank Irvine from Strand Street, and the couple – who were devoted to each other – moved to No. 65 Corban Avenue in 1965. This is where they happily spent their life together with their family of four children: Martin, Catherine, Ann and Paul.

Fanchea loved the view from her property over the Back Lough, and it was here that she was happiest, surrounded by her great neighbours.

She started work in the old Convent Primary as a cleaner is 1971, and also worked in the Sister’s of Mercy house, where she became good friends with the staff and community.

Fanchea had a wonderful sense of empathy and the entire school and convent community were automatically drawn to her for help and advice when needed, which she gave abundantly. She continued to work there, and later in St Teresa’s PS until 1993, when she retired to spend as much time as she could with her beloved grandchildren.

In 2002, she lost the love of her life, Frank, when he passed away, aged 61.

Most will remember Fanchea for her great sense of fun, and even when she lost Frank, she smiled through many tears and tried to help everyone around her smile too, never taking herself too seriously. Fanchea enjoyed reminiscing about her life in Dame Street and always had a story to tell about her life there. She also very much enjoyed her trips to Cushendall to spend time with her sister, Chrissie, and her family.

She had a very strong faith. She prayed daily, and when her health deteriorated, she would watch Mass and other church events on the webcam at home, and took great joy from this. Even with her health problems and constant pain, she continued to laugh, smile and sing until her last day.

Fanchea is survived by her sons, Martin (Frances) and Paul, and her daughters Catherine (Jenny), and Ann (George), and her grandchildren, Barry, Ciara, Megan, Catriona, Hannah, Amy and Ollie.

She is pre-deceased by her husband, Frank; brothers, Joe and Oliver, and sisters, Chrissie and Annie.