It’s expected the funeral of a Clare woman and her children who were killed in a gun attack in Fermanagh this week will take place in her native Barefield.
Heartfelt tributes continue to be paid to Vanessa Whyte, her son James and daughter Sara, who tragically passed away on Wednesday.
A dark cloud is said to be hanging over the parish of Barefield today, following the tragic loss of Vanessa Whyte.
45 Year-Old Vanessa, along with her 14 year-old son James and 13 year-daughter Sara Rutledge died on Wednesday following a gun attack at their home in Maguiresbridge.
The PSNI says a triple murder and attempted suicide is one line of inquiry, as a man from the same household remains seriously injured in hospital.
Barefield Parish Priest, Fr Tom Fitzpatrick says the news has left the community heartbroken.
Despite moving to Fermanagh several years ago, Vanessa was a frequent visitor to friends and family in Barefield and was a keen supporter of Clare GAA, even attending last year’s All-Ireland hurling final with Sara and James.
Vanessa was also heavily involved with promotion of hurling and camogie in Fermanagh, even establishing underage teams.
According to Fr Tom Fitzpatrick, Vanessa, a Veterinary Surgeon, was a lover of nature and animals, but her children were definitively the centre of her universe.
He says although no details have been finalised, its the family’s wish that the funeral is held in Clare.
A prayer service will be held in Barefield Chuch at 7pm on Sunday evening, while a vigil will take place later today in the grounds of Maguiresbridge Primary School.
Neighbour of the Whyte’s and former Councillor Ann Norton is confident the community will rally around the family in numbers at this trying time.
Vanessa is survived by her mother Mary, siblings Geraldine, Regina, Anita, Ivor and Stephen along with her many friends and extended family.
Vanessa, James and Sara will be remembered at a vigil in Maguiresbridge this evening, while a book of condolence has opened at a primary school in County Fermanagh.
Miss Hadden taught both children at their former school, and says they excelled at sports.
Listen to the full interview here
