TRIBUTES were paid this week following the sudden passing of Ruth Staunton nee Tiernan, a prominent Limerick solicitor and wife of former Munster and Irish rugby star Jeremy Staunton.
Ms Staunton, who died “unexpectedly but peacefully” at University Hospital Limerick last Friday, was a mother of four who worked for a leading European legal firm.
Her rip.ie post read: “Beloved wife of Jeremy, adoring mother to Dylan, Finn, Cian and Annabel, loving daughter of Maeve and Michael Tiernan and cherished sister of Mark, Hughie, Eoin, David, Kate and Ross. Sadly missed by her loving family, parents-in-law Willie and Anne Staunton, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and many friends.”
Ms Staunton’s funeral mass was to take place at St. Nessan’s Church in Raheen, this Wednesday at 1pm with burial afterwards at Mungret’s Castlemungret Cemetery.
Heartfelt tributes poured in for the mother of four that she was “such a knowledgeable, gentle person”.
“What a loss of a beautiful person, inside and out,” offered one sympathiser.
“Our deepest sympathy to Jeremy and children, to the Staunton and Tiernan family on the sad passing of Ruth. So saddened, you are all in our thoughts and prayers,” added another.
Mungret St Pauls GAA Club, whom Ruth and Jeremy’s children all play for, posted a lengthy tribute in her honour.
The club stated: “It is with deep sadness that we extend our sincere condolences to the Staunton family on the passing of Ruth.”
“Beloved wife of Jeremy and a devoted and adoring mother to our players Dylan, Finn, Cian and Annabel. Ruth will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeremy, the children, the extended Tiernan and Staunton families, and all their friends at this very difficult time. Ruth will be greatly missed by the entire community.”
Limerick Minister of State, Niall Collins, said the entire county of Limerick had been left reeling upon hearing of the tragedy.
“I know friends, colleagues and neighbours will come together to support the Staunton and Tiernan families in any way they can in the dark days, weeks and months ahead. May she Rest In Peace,” said Minister Collins.
As a mark of respect, Garryowen Rugby Club and other Limerick rugby clubs postponed training and matches last weekend.
May she Rest In Peace.