Ciara McKenna: Mourners are being asked to wear bright colors to the funeral of a Longford woman

The sudden death of 20-year-old Ciara McKenna on Sunday sparked an outpouring of heartbreaking tributes on social media.

Ciara, from Longford town, will be buried at Connell’s Funeral Home, Church St, Longford. on Wednesday from 6 p.m., concluding with prayers at 8 p.m.

Her cortege will leave her home on Thursday 14th and arrive at St Mel’s Cathedral, Longford at 11am for the Requiem Mass.

After the mass, Ciara will be buried in the family plot at Ballymacormack Cemetery.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden death of our beloved daughter and sister Ciara McKenna at her home on Sunday, September 10, 2023,” read a statement on rip.ie.

“Predeceased by her Aunt Deirdre, her grandparents Finbar and Nancy / Patrick and Mary-Jo.

“Ciara will be sadly missed by her heartbroken family, parents Fiona and Seamus, her sister Anna, brothers Andrew and Mark, her aunts and uncles, her dear niece Caitlin, her cousins’ neighbors and her many good friends.

“Ciara’s family would like everyone attending her funeral to wear bright colors as she was a bright and vibrant girl.

Tributes poured in for the former Scoil Mhuire student, who was a much-loved and respected employee of local restaurant Take Two.

As a mark of respect, the popular Earl Street premises were closed on Monday following the young Longford woman’s untimely death.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we bring you the heartbreaking news of the sudden passing of our valued employee, Ciara McKenna, RIP,” read a post on social media.

“Out of respect, our restaurant will be closed on Monday the 11th.”

The news sparked a flood of equally poignant tributes and messages of support online from close friends and the general public.

“One of the sweetest girls I ever had the pleasure of growing up with,” one person wrote.

“Truly one of the sweetest angels I have ever known. Without them, Longford will be a different place.”

These sentiments were shared by countless others, many of whom highlighted the young woman’s good-natured and kind personality.

“A beautiful woman inside and out,” one person wrote.

“We will miss Ciara, her laugh, her smile was unique.”

The bubbly and outgoing woman from Longford had enjoyed a short break in London earlier this year, barely 12 months after celebrating her diplomas.

“RIP Ciara McKenna,” read another tribute. “What a lovely girl who always had a smile on her face and a good word for everyone.

“It won’t be the same without you. This time last year we celebrated your results and it was one of the greatest evenings. Sleep well our angel, you will be missed so much.”