'Beautiful inside and out' - Tributes to Kildare mum who passed away
Funeral took place on Thursday
Tributes have been paid following the death has occurred of Samantha McLaren, of Rathangan, Co. Kildare and formerly of Mulhuddart, Dublin, who died tragically on September 4.
Sam, as she was affectionately known, was a much-loved mother, partner, daughter, sister and friend.
She was the adored mother of Ben, Sebastian and Daisy and much-loved partner of Seán. She was also a cherished daughter of Ray and Katie and beloved sister of Jennifer, Mark, Amy, Gemma and Jade.
Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from family, friends and communities in both Rathangan and Dublin, with many remembering Samantha for her kindness, warmth and infectious personality.
Tributes left in her memory described her as a “kind, loving, gentle lady”, while others recalled a woman who was always friendly and welcoming.
One former neighbour remembered meeting Sam during her school days and described her as a “sound, friendly, beautiful girl”.
In Rathangan, Samantha was a familiar presence around the community, particularly at the school gates and on the sidelines supporting her children. The Lynch family recalled seeing her regularly supporting Sebastian and his Rathangan FC under-11 teammates, saying she would be greatly missed by the community.
Others remembered her friendly chats while out and about in the town. One local family said Samantha always had a hello for people and would often stop to admire flowers while passing.
Her connections also extended to the Vincent de Paul, where friends and colleagues remembered her warmly. A former colleague described how they had worked together for years and became close friends, recalling Sam as a lovely person.
Tributes have also come from abroad. Colonel Pat Murnane, OC of the 33rd Irish Contingent with KFOR in Kosovo, expressed condolences on behalf of its members to Seán, the children and Samantha’s family.
Among the many messages, Samantha was repeatedly described as kind, caring, beautiful inside and out, and someone whose presence brought light to those around her.
Her family received the sympathies of hundreds of people as they mourned a devastating loss, with particular thoughts expressed for her three young children.
Samantha reposed at her parents’ residence on September 9 before her Funeral Mass at St Patrick’s Church, Corduff, on September 10, followed by burial in Mulhuddart Cemetery.
She is survived by her loving children, partner, parents, siblings, extended family and many friends.
“Gotta keep dancing when the lights go out.”