THE devastated family of the late Katie-May McDermott (16) have paid tribute to the Lisnaskea teenager following her unexpected passing.

Speaking to The Impartial Reporter before the young woman’s funeral, Katie-May’s mother, Brenda, said: “She was a really good child. She never gave any trouble.”

Paying tribute to her daughter, she said: “She lived for her family, her friends and playing football. She loved doing well in school.”

The family relied on the community in Fermanagh as Katie-May was laid to rest yesterday, Wednesday.

Guards of honour were formed by Lisnaskea Emmett’s Gaelic Athletic Club and classmates from Mount Lourdes Grammar School, where Katie-May was a Year 12 student, as her funeral cortege passed through the town on its way to Holy Cross Church, Lisnaskea.

Mount Lourdes Grammar School released a statement following Katie-May’s death on Saturday, July 10. The statement said: “The Board of Governors, staff and students of Mount Lourdes extend their deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of our Year 12 student, Katie-May McDermott.

“Eternal rest, grant on to her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May Katie-May rest in peace.”

Tributes have been paid to Katie-May from across the GAA community, with her home club leading tributes. The club said: “Lisnaskea Emmetts GAC is extremely shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic and untimely death of our esteemed and beloved Ladies player, Katie-May McDermott.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to Katie-May’s parents Gabie and Brenda, brothers Shane, Louie and Danny and the extended McDermott and McGovern families at this most difficult time.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this sad time. Katie-May will be deeply missed by her family, friends and our club, but her smile will live forever in the hearts of all those who knew her. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Also paying tribute, Fermanagh Ladies Gaelic Football Association said: “All of us at Fermanagh LGFA, and on behalf of our clubs across the county, offer our deepest sympathy to all at Lisnaskea Emmetts, on the tragic and untimely passing of their beloved and talented player, Katie-May McDermott.

“Our thoughts and prayers are especially with Katie-May's parents, Brenda and Gabriel; her brothers, Shane, Louie and Danny; her entire family circle and friends at this most sad and difficult time.

“May she rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

Katie-May McDermott’s funeral took place yesterday at Holy Cross Church, Lisnaskea. She is survived by her parents, Gabie and Brenda; her brothers Shane, Louie and Danny; and her extended family. Funeral arrangements were carried out by Swift and McCaffrey Funeral Directors, Lisnaskea.

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