Raven Adams fundraiser set up as funeral takes place this morning
The GoFundMe has been launched to help cover funeral costs
A GoFundMe launched to help cover the funeral costs of 24-year-old Raven Adams has raised more than £10,600, with hundreds of donations pouring in from people moved by the tragedy, as her Celebration of Life service takes place this morning.
The fundraiser, which has surpassed two-thirds of its £16,000 target, was set up after Raven was killed in a hit-and-run while walking home from work in Belfast in the early hours of July 16.
Organisers said the money will help relieve her family of the significant costs of her Celebration of Life service which is taking place this morning at Dardistown Crematorium, Dublin.
Tributes continue to pour in from friends, colleagues and community groups remembering the Dundalk woman as a creative, kind and much-loved young woman whose life touched so many in both Dundalk and Belfast.
Raven's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from those who knew her in Dundalk.
Dundalk Youth Centre paid a touching tribute, saying:
“Everyone at Dundalk Youth Centre was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our former young person, Raven Adams.
“Many years ago, Raven walked through the doors of our youth centre and became part of our youth centre family. Although time passes and young people move on to new chapters in their lives, they are never forgotten by those who had the privilege of knowing them and being part of their journey.
“Raven will be remembered for the memories she created, the laughter she shared and the place she held within our community.
“Our thoughts, love and deepest condolences are with Raven’s family, friends and all who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time.”
Panama Coffee, where Raven had been a regular customer since her early teens, said it was "with great sadness" that staff learned of her passing.
In a heartfelt social media post, the café said: "Raven had been coming to Panama since she was 13 years old and always brought such great energy when she was in. A gentle soul, we will miss you.
"Jade, Chandi and Paul, our thoughts and prayers are with you. RIP Raven."
Tributes have also been paid by The Thirsty Goat, where Raven worked, with colleagues describing her as a much-loved member of their team.
In a statement released online they said: “Today, our hearts are with two members of The Thirsty Goat family
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our much-loved colleague, Raven Adams. Her kindness, laughter, dedication and warm smile left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her. She will be greatly missed and we will cherish the memories shared together.
“At this incredibly difficult time, we extend our deepest condolences to Raven’s family, friends and loved ones. May she rest in peace.”