Community Mourns as Funeral Details Announced for Vanessa O’Callaghan
The Cork community is grieving the loss of Vanessa O’Callaghan, a 36-year-old woman who tragically lost her life following a violent assault on September 14th. On Thursday, details were released for Vanessa’s funeral, scheduled for September 25th.
The funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am in St. Patrick’s Church, Blackpool, followed by burial at St. Catherine’s Cemetery in Kilcully.
Vanessa’s passing has devastated her family and friends, who remember her as a kind, caring, and selfless individual who touched the lives of many.
“Vanessa was a beautiful person, inside and out,” said her grieving sister, Lisa O’Callaghan. “She had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone.”
“She was tragically taken from us far too soon, and we are all struggling to come to terms with her loss. It is a tragic loss for our family, and for all who knew and loved Vanessa.”
Fatal Assault Highlights Ongoing Concerns about Safety
Vanessa was assaulted on the night of September 14th while sleeping rough near a soup kitchen on Liberty Street in Cork. She was rushed to Cork University Hospital in critical condition but sadly passed away from her injuries two days later.
A 21-year-old man appeared in court in connection with the assault and was remanded in custody. The case remains under investigation.
Vanessa’s death has reignited concerns about safety for vulnerable individuals living on the streets of Cork.
Sister Calls for Increased Garda Patrols
Lisa O’Callaghan has called for increased Garda patrols in the city center, particularly around areas where homeless individuals are often found.
“We need to ensure the safety of those who are most vulnerable,” Lisa stated.
Though she expressed her belief that they were insufficient measures to prevent tragedies like Vanessa’s from happening again.
Remembering Vanessa’s Impact on the Community
In addition to the overwhelming grief vanessa’s death has caused, there has been an outpouring of support for her family and a collective desire to honor her memory.
Many are remembering Vanessa’s kindness and willingness to help others, emphasizing her generosity of spirit and resilience in the face of hardship.
Candles were lit in downtown Cork on kman, a pub on the Grand Parade.
Charlie, who frequently encounters Vanessa while spreading kindness in Cork through acts like handing out food and clothing, expressed his shock at the currently unfolding events.
“Vanessa always had a smile and a kind word for everyone, even when she didn’t have much herself,” Charlie said. “She was a true friend to many, and she will be deeply missed.”
How did Vanessa’s kindness and generosity impact her community?
## Interview with Lisa O’Callaghan
**Host:** Thank you for joining us today, Lisa. Our hearts go out to you and your family during this incredibly difficult time.
**Lisa:** Thank you. It’s been a very hard week for all of us. Vanessa was so special, and we’re all still in shock.
**Host:** For our viewers who may not know Vanessa, can you tell us a little bit about her?
**Lisa:** Vanessa was a beautiful person, inside and out. She genuinely had a heart of gold and would always put everyone else’s needs before her own. She had a laugh that could light up a room and a kind word for everyone she met.
**Host:** It’s clear how much she was loved. Funeral details have now been released. Can you share those with us?
**Lisa:** Yes, the funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am on September 25th at St. Patrick’s Church in Blackpool. She will then be laid to rest at St. Catherine’s Cemetery in Kilcully.
**Host:** What would you like people to remember most about Vanessa?
**Lisa:** I want people to remember her kindness, her generosity, and her infectious spirit. She was a true light in this world, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
**Host:** Thank you for sharing your memories of Vanessa with us, Lisa. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this heartbreaking time.
**Lisa:** Thank you.
