There is a deep sadness in Letterkenny and Belfast communities following the passing of gifted sportswoman Ciara Ferry.
Ciara died peacefully in hospital on Saturday after a battle with cancer.
The daughter of Noel and Mary, Ciara grew up in Ballymacool and was active in many sports clubs over the years. She recently made Belfast her home and was living there with her wife, Lorraine, and children Orlaith and Cillian.
Ciara’s passion for sport extended across many disciplines and her expertise, determination and friendship were valued by so many.
Ciara’s football career began with St Eunan’s, winning an Ulster club title in 1993 while she also represented Donegal at underage level.
“In the hearts and minds of all of us and long into the future Ciara Ferry will be remembered as one of the firsts and originals of St. Eunans Ladies GAA club,” said a heartfelt tribute from the club.
“Ciara was a tenacious and gifted player who played so many sports, from Gaelic, Soccer and Basketball. She played for DIT in her student days, she played in New York for a Summer and played GAA in Belfast. Ciara won an All-Star schools Basketball award too, as well as playing for the Comets her club basketball team.”
Ciara was also an established triathlete and an active member of the Olympian Triathlon Club in Belfast.
“Ciara was not just an accomplished triathlete but also a cherished individual in every aspect of life. She brought warmth, kindness, and an infectious love for sports and community to everything she did. Ciara’s spirit shone bright, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her,” said her clubmates in Belfast.
“As we remember her dedication to sport and her exceptional achievements as a footballer with St. Eunan’s, we also treasure the cherished moments shared with her in our club. Her enthusiasm and support as a teammate and committee member, as well as her genuine camaraderie will forever be etched in our memories.”
Belfast’s Phoenix Basketball Club are also mourning the loss of a great friend. Ciara became involved with the club’s development when her children were playing with the academy. She was also a member of the women’s walking basketball group at the Lisburn Racquets Club.
They said: “Not only did Ciara love playing sport but she also dedicated much of her working and leisure time to developing and promoting sport.”
The club expressed their condolences, adding: “We hope that knowing how much Ciara did for so many people through sport over the years will be of some consolation to her loved ones in the difficult times ahead.”
Obituary Notice:
Ciara Ferry, Late of Moor Park Drive, Belfast, and Letterkenny. Beloved wife of Lorraine, and much loved mummy of Orlaith and Cillian, loving daughter of Noel and Mary, sister of Rionach, and loving aunt of Kelsey.
House Private to family on Monday please. Viewing on Tuesday and Wednesday from 12.00noon
Ciara will leave her home 2 Moor Park Drive on Thursday at 9.30am to arrive at St Anne’s Church for 10.00am Requiem Mass followed by burial in Milltown Cemetery.
Deeply regretted by her loving family circle. Family flowers only Donations in Lieu to Friends of the Cancer Centre c/o https://www.friendsofthecancercentre.com/donate/.
