O'ROURKE

O'ROURKE (née Linehan) (late of 141 Ballymun Road, Glasnevin) - Emer's husband Kevin, daughters Niamh and Ailbhe and the extended Linehan, McPhilips, O'Rourke and O'Neill families wish to thank sincerely all who were kind and loving to her during her illness, and all who offered us spiritual, emotional or practical support during that time and since her passing. Everlasting thanks to the special friends who carried us in caring for Emer with such love during those precious final days at home, and helped in the days of honour and celebration afterwards. Our deep thanks also to so many others: the great numbers of friends, relatives and work, golf, school or ex-college colleagues who attended the funeral, called to our home, sent prayers, messages or cards, especially those who travelled long distances; to Emer's lovely friends from Eccles St. Class of '72, St Vincent de Paul and "the Park"; to our wonderful, thoughtful neighbours; to Frs John and Kevin for their attentiveness and support, to Frs Joe and Ray for joining them in the funeral celebration, and to Martha, Germaine and Geraldine for the beautiful music; to the staff and students of Dominican College, Griffith Avenue for their understanding and support. Our special thanks to Dr Burbridge, Dr Boyd's team, all at St Monica's Ward, Mater Hospital and the St Francis Hospice Palliative Care Team for their skill, care and sensitivity. We hope to thank most of you individually in the New Year. In the meantime, particularly for those whose names we may then miss, we hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our heartfelt gratitude. The goodness and warmth of so many people has been a great comfort, and a fitting tribute to Emie - a gentle, generous, funny lady of beautiful character and principle, who brought goodness and joy to those she touched, and filled our world with love. It is our lasting privilege and inspiration to have the gift of that love. Month's Mind Mass tomorrow (Saturday, December 15) at 4.30 p.m. in Our Lady of Victories Church, Ballymun Road.