Tributes pour in for tragic young mum Martina Sexton after cancer death

Martina Sexton, 39, died after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday (December 11).

A death notice in Funeral Times said that she died peacefully at her parents’ home surrounded by her family.

Mrs Sexton’s husband Ronan is a teacher at St Colman’s Primary School in Saval.

A post on the school website said: “At this very sad time, could all parents and children keep Ronan and Charlotte in their thoughts and prayers at the passing of Martina, a dearly loved wife and mother. May she rest in peace,”.

Mrs Sexton’s funeral Mass will take place in St Patrick’s Church, Mayobridge at 1pm today with burial immediately afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Local clubs have said they are organising a guard of honour.

Current Covid 19 restrictions apply but the Mass can be viewed on the parish webcam. The family has asked for donations to Macmillan or Marie Curie charities in lieu of flowers.

In a post on social media Ballyholland Harps GAC on Friday said: “Ballyholland Harps GAC are extremely saddened to learn of the death of Martina Sexton. Wife of Ronan and dear mother of Charlotte.

We extend our deepest condolences to Ronan, to the entire Sexton and Maguire Family circle and to the Gaels of Mayobridge and Saval at this sad time. May she rest in peace”.

Newry’s Church Street Community Group said the community would unite after the tragedy.

“No doubt the community will come together to give Martina the send off she deserves and be there for the family over the coming weeks,” they said.

Mayobridge GAC said the executive committee and members were devastated to hear of Mrs Sexton’s death.

“Mayobridge GAC executive committee and members are devastated to hear of the passing of Martina Sexton, wife of senior player Ronan and mother of under 10 player Charlotte. Martina will be fondly remembered for her kind and bubbly personality who was always on hand to help.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Ronan and Charlotte and also offer condolences to Martina’s father Eddie and mother Lilly, siblings Edward, Kevin, Marita, Ann, father in law Jim and the extended Sexton and Maguire family circles. Ar dheis De go raibh a hanam.”

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