“A lady” was the term most associated with the late Philomena (Phil) Baker, who died following an accident on the Castlebalfour Road, Lisnaskea on December 20.

Warm tributes have been paid to Mrs. Baker (75), Kilready, Newtownbutler, who was described as “witty and good to the core” by her family.

Paying tribute to all of those who helped Mrs. Baker last week following her accident, her family would “particularly like to thank the Emergency Services, Canon Jimmy McPhillips, and the Curran and Love families who comforted and prayed with mammy in her time of need”.

Mrs. Baker was well-known in the area for her kindness and compassion. She enjoyed spending time with others, particularly relatives (including her aunt Bridie, and uncles John and Tommy that are still living), friends and those in the community that were lonely, and she relished reminiscing of days gone by.

“Mammy always had a smile on her face and loved Irish Country music, dancing and any opportunity to laugh,” said her daughter Aoibheann, as she described her beloved mother’s personality.

Aoibheann continued: “She spent a lot of her time doing things for other people, and didn’t give it a second thought.

“She was always giving her time to others and volunteered regularly in the Oak Healthy Living Centre in Lisnaskea, and she loved every second of it.”

Mrs. Baker turned 75 on December 6, and celebrated her 75th birthday by having afternoon high tea with her husband of 53 years, Finian; her four children, Fiona, Martin, Michelle and Aoibheann, and her grandchildren and other family members at home, using a china tea set she received as a wedding gift.

Before her marriage, she worked for Frank Maguire, later becoming a homemaker and then finished her career working in the local shop in Newtownbutler.

Mrs. Baker’s Requiem Mass was held on Saturday, December 23 at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Newtownbutler, and was celebrated by Fr. Kevin Malcomson, with music provided by Tully.

Funeral arrangements were carried out by Swift and McCaffrey Funeral Directors, Lisnaskea.

The funeral was attended by a large number of people, and the Baker family wished to thank all of those who supported them during this difficult period.

“We want to thank everyone that came to see Mammy off, visited the house, came to the funeral or watched the funeral online, and everyone for their prayers, support and kind messages.

“People have been very kind in the mouth of Christmas, and if we had one message to give, it would be to hug your loved ones and tell them you love them at every opportunity.”