Louth devastated by unexpected passing of 'wonderful young mother' Charlene Rafferty

Tributes have flooded in following the tragic death of Charlene Rafferty (née Smith) from Dundalk. 

The young mother-of-three passed away unexpectedly on Monday, 17 February, leaving the community rocked by her loss.

Charlene has been described as a 'bright, bubbly and kind' young woman who lived life to the fullest. 

Many have taken to share kind words and their fondest memories of Charlene online following her death, as well as expressing their heartfelt sympathies for her husband Kevin, their three children and her extended family and friends. 

Among some of the touching tributes paid to Charlene, one said: "Our dearest Char, there is no words to describe the heartache. You were such a fantastic wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend! You lived life to the fullest and you sure took the fun to every party! We will forever miss you."

Another shared: "Charlene was the most kindest loving person I had the pleasure of knowing. Always such a wonderful smile."

Dundalk RFC also posted a tribute to Charlene on social media as all three of her children play with the club. They said: "She will be missed on the side lines and the fun post games in the kitchen."

All of the comments about Charlene portray her as a beautiful woman with an "infectious smile" and who "always radiated fun and happiness."

Through the hundreds of messages left by people, it is evident that Charlene will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Charlene's funeral will take place on Thursday, 20 February following removal from the Smith family home on Greyacre Road in Newtownbalregan, Dundalk. The funeral procession will make its way on foot to St. Nicholas’ Parish Church for the funeral mass at 12pm. 

After the mass, the cortège will continue on foot to St. Patrick’s Cemetery for the burial.