'You're the best mam in the world' - Emotional tributes as Kilkenny woman Fiona Booth laid to rest

Hundreds of people turned out to pay their respects to Fiona Booth from Gowran, County Kilkenny at her funeral mass which took place on Thursday morning, 13 February.

Mourners gathered at St Colman's Church in Clara to celebrate the life of the beloved mother of two, with heartbreaking tributes being paid to the 'truly beautiful woman' formerly from Mountmellick, County Laois. 

Fiona, aged just 50-years-old, had been reported missing from her home in Gowran for several days before gardaí stood down the search on Sunday after discovering Fiona's body. 

Fiona's family have expressed their appreciation for the tireless efforts of the emergency service crews who helped search for her and again thanked them during the service among the prayers of the faithful.  

During the mass, Fiona's son Conor bravely stood to deliver a touching tribute to his cherished mother. The young man said: "Ma, I never thought I'd be writing this letter. We will forever miss you."

Recanting his treasured memories of his mother, Conor said she was a "perfectionist" in their home and he would dearly miss "our cups of tea together" as well as the "funny photos you took of the cat."

He sincerely thanked everyone who has supported the family in the last few days since Fiona passed, before concluding: "You're the best mam in the world."

The parish priest presiding over the ceremony admitted "we shouldn't be here this morning," before going on to describe the strong and beloved character of Fiona. He said: "Fiona's beauty within and out touched all of our lives." He continued to say her "infectious smile" lit up every place and room. 

He noted how all of the comments being made about Fiona since her death describe a beautiful woman, a "devoted mother" who "beautifully touched the lives of all those here."

At the time of her death, the priest said Fiona had her rosary beads in her pocket and these were then brought up to the altar of the church during the offertory procession.

Fiona's husband Robert, her son Conor and daughter Emily thanked everyone who has been there to support them, including those who have travelled to pay their respects to Fiona at this morning's funeral as well as their friends and neighbours. 

Fiona will be dearly missed by her family and to all who were fortunate to know and love her.