The family of Malaysia Airlines crash victim Edel Mahady has paid tribute to her following her tragic death this week.
The mum-of-two, from Palmerstown in Co Dublin, was on her way to Australia when flight MH17 was shot down on Thursday afternoon.
Some 298 people, including passengers and crew, died in the crash.
In a statement, Edel’s heartbroken family said, "Edel Mahady took care of people. She was devoted to and immeasurably proud of her husband Dereck, son Conor and daughter Ciara. If there was an Irish version of a ‘tiger mother’ Edel was it.”
They went on, "Edel’s fierce love of her family was evident in her support of her siblings through constant communication and regular visits to care for her elderly mother.
"After immigrating to Australia as a newlywed, Edel gathered a group of friends and came to regard them as her Australian family.
"Edel’s enthusiasm for living life was evident in the fact she held two jobs that had a great impact on two communities.
"For 14 years she was the Bursar/Office Manager at Good Shepherd Catholic Primary School whilst working as a fitness instructor at Fitness First in Cannington and Myaree. Edel didn’t merely ‘do’ her work, her humour, strength, wisdom, joy and determination drove people to achieve their best.
"She would be heartbroken to know how saddened we are by her death, she would not want anyone to waste time on hating those who did this rather she would be expecting us to ‘suck it up’ and make sure we looked after those who need it and to live fully.
"Her family have shared her with many people throughout her work life but ask that at this time their privacy is respected as they grieve for their beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend."
So heartbreaking - our thoughts are with Edel’s family at this time.
