Tragedy befalls Kildare family on eve of St Patrick's Day. Now family must face costly repatriation to fly loved one home

When residents across Co Kildare were planning their St Patrick’s Day celebrations and where to watch Ireland claim the Grand Slam, a dreadful tragedy befell the O’Brien family from Narraghmore.

On the eve of St Patrick’s Day, Sarah and John were flying to Perth, Australia for what they’d hoped would be the holiday of lifetime, to join their son David, daughter-in-law Maria and their two grandchildren Cillian and Lauren.

Tragedy occurred when Sarah took ill on the journey and sadly, died before the flight landed in Perth.

Instead of celebrating Lá le Phadraig together, the family are now dealing with the dreadful loss of a much loved nanna, mother and wife.

Now the family must face the massive expense of the repatriation of Sarah’s body back to Ireland and plan a funeral thereafter. Kildare Now is appealing to our viewers to support a fundraising endeavour via GoFundMe to fly Sarah’s body home. Log onto https://www.gofundme.com/helpbringsarahhome and help to alleviate at least the financial burden of the family during this stressful time.

Sarah is described as “a loving and fun Nanny” and is survived by her husband John, her three sons David, John and Declan, ten grandchildren and extended family and friends, all of whom will miss her dearly. She is sadly predeceased by her son, Kieran.

Cllr Ivan Keatley, Chair of Athy Muncipal District

Cllr Ivan Keatley, Chair of Athy Muncipal District extended his condolences to the family: "My heart goes out to the family, they're a lovely, quiet family from Lipstown, Narraghmore. Whilst yesterday was a day of national and local celebration, sadly, the O'Briens were coping with such a devastating personal loss. Rest in peace, Sarah, a lovely person. I do hope Co Kildare will support the fundraiser to help bring her home".

All monies raised through gomefund will go to the O’Briens for the costs of the repatriation and funeral costs.

Photos taken from gofundme

KildareNow and Kildare Post extend their condolences to John and the extended family, may Sarah rest in peace, amen.