Tributes to 'truly inspirational' Mayo woman Marina Tuffy
The death of Marina Tuffy, Gub Na Hairde, Currane, Achill, and formerly of Belcarra, and DeerPark, Aghagower, has led to an outpouring of sadness and regret.
She died peacefully at her home yesterday under the exceptional care of her heartbroken wife, family and friends after a lengthy journey with cancer.
The deceased was a prominent campaigner for a Yes vote in the same-sex marriage referendum in Mayo in 2015, a landmark event in Irish society.
She was subsequently honoured as the Most Inspirational Woman in Mayo at the 2017 annual Nollaig na mBan event, hosted by Mayo Rape Crisis Centre.
It was in recognition of her and her partner Cyntia's work for LGBT young people across Mayo and the west of Ireland.
The citation recognised that she was "pivotal after her own experiences in setting up services and contacts for those who are gay in the west of Ireland, particularly the young who may be isolated and alone in their struggle and also for informing people of her struggle and journey."
In recent years, she worked as the link worker with the Flourish social prescribing service in the Achill and surrounding area.
Flourish is one of the support services provided by the Family Centre in Castlebar and helps adults of all ages to explore ways to meet new people, develop new interests and hobbies.
She only retired from her position in August and members of the local community joined in the Glór na dTonn community centre to honour her.
A native of Belcarra, her life took a major turn in 2000 when her husband, Tomás, died suddenly.
The challenge of raising her four children was one to which she devoted immense love and dedication with the help of her family.
In a tribute to her, MEP Maria Walsh stated: "Marina was a joy, an absolute light for the many people she met. An activist like no other.
"The world is now a little darker following the passing of our Rainbow sister Marina.
"Sincerest condolences to her soul mate, her children and many friends."
A tribute by Ballycroy Community Centre stated: "It is with great sadness we have learned of the passing of an incredible lady.
"Sincere condolences to all of Marina's family and dear friends. We've had the pleasure of meeting Marina in her line of work with the Music Circle.
"Rest assured she has always made such a difference to people's lives and her memories will live on."
Many other fond tributes are being paid to her on social media.
"I had the privilege of working with Marina in a number of organisations and will always remember her warmth, kindness, compassion, professionalism and amazing sense of humour," one stated.
Another said: "She was a truly inspirational woman and made a difference to so many people’s lives."
A further tribute observed: "Marina was a beautiful person, always so generous with her smile."
The family notice reads: "Her loss will be felt deeply by her wife Cynthia Silva of the past 11 years. Her adult children, TJ, Siofra, Siobhan and Aoife Tuffy.
"Her mother Mary Moran of Westport, Gabriel Moran, Deerpark, Aghagower, Bernardine Moran, Balla, Yvonne McDonagh, Claremorris, and Louis Moran, Deerpark, Aghagower,
"Her sisters-in-law Kathy Fahy (neé Tuffy), Cathy McGovern, her daughter-in-law Jenny. Her many nieces and nephews, Kate, Matthew, Peter, Niamh, Shania, Adam, Evan, Alanna and John.
"The community of Currane is heartbroken with the sudden death of a dear friend Marina who always shared her smile.
"May she rest in eternal peace in the Arms of the Angels who await her."
Reposing at her residence (F28 FY56) today (Tuesday) from 12 noon until 8 p.m.
The celebration of her life will be in Glor Na Dtonn (F28 W8K5) on Wednesday at 12 noon, followed by cremation at McGowan’s Crematorium in Sligo.
May her gentle soul rest in peace.