Widespread sadness has been expressed following the death of Imelda Leonard (nee O’Loughlin) Ballysooragh, Letterbreen, who passed away peacefully on March 17, 2023 at Altnagelvin Hospital, aged 96.

Imelda, pre-deceased by her sister Mary, is the much loved wife of Sean Leonard, and a devoted mother to Marius, Edmund, Teresa, Jackie, Anne, John and Hugh. She will be sadly missed by her 16 grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and entire family circle. They will greatly miss her warmth and kindness.

Imelda was born in Cornagee in 1926, to her parents Colman and Teresa O’Loughlin. She married Sean in 1956 and settled in Ballysooragh where she would spend the rest of her life.

Imelda was a pillar of the Mullaghdun community. Working in the shop she owned with Sean in Belcoo, Imelda not only devoted herself to her husband and seven children, but shared her gentle and caring nature with all of those who she met in her daily work.

She was devoted to her religion and her faith. A cherished member of Cleenish Parish, she played the organ and was a member of the choir from the age of 16. Her love for her faith and music shined through in many aspects of her life. Her love for flowers and nature was evident from the many hours she spent dedicating herself to her garden.

Her contributions to all those who loved her will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace.