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The devastated sister of a talented GAA star who died suddenly has described her as the 'epitome of glamour' - saying 'you are the most special person I have ever come across'.
The community in Kilbride, Co Meath have been left shocked and saddened after the death of GAA player Rachel McManus who died suddenly at the Mater Hospital in Dublin on Saturday.
Rachel was a well known player for Kilbride GFC, and also part of Dunboyne AC with both teams leading tributes to her.
Speaking ahead of her funeral on Saturday, Rachel's sister, Ruby, has spoken of her devastation over the loss of the talented sportswoman.
Ruby said: 'What a privilege to have spent 23 years with you my amazing beautiful sister. Irish twinnies. We spent two days of every year the same age. You are the most special person I have ever come across.'
Ruby described her big sister as the 'epitome of glamour' who 'radiates light and warmth'.
'My life is your life, yours is mine. You are the epitome of glamour. You radiate light and warmth. I love you so much. Thank you for being my best friend.
'Thank you for holding my hand and guiding me as the best big sister one could ask for. I hope to be half of what you are. Everywhere I look I will see you.
'You will be in the beautiful flowers you planted in the garden. We always have each other. I love you Rachel. You have left an amazing legacy. Forever 24,' she added.
Rachel will be reposing at her home on Friday evening from 4pm to 8pm. Removal on Saturday morning to St. Brigid’s Church, Kilbride, arriving for funeral mass at 11am followed by burial in Kilbride Cemetery.
Rachel played for Kilbride GAA in Meath and, on Wednesday, the club said in a statement: 'The members of Kilbride GAA Club were left numbed and shocked at the weekend as news of the passing of Rachel McManus filtered through the parish.
'Rachel played with the Club for many years and was currently part of the adult ladies’ panel.
'She was known for her warmth and friendliness and had a word for everyone. Along with sister Ruby, they were simply known as Rachel and Ruby.
'Only one year separated the sisters and they were inseparable, both involved in different aspects of the Club including Executive and recent fundraising.'
Rachel was also a member of Dunboyne Athletic Club. She was part of the Juvenile training group and competed for Dunboyne on multiple occasions including winning Silver at the 2017 Leinster Cross Country Relays.
Dunboyne Athletic Club added: 'She was known for her warmth and friendliness and had a word for everyone. Along with sister Ruby, they were simply known as Rachel and Ruby. Only one year separated the sisters and they were inseparable, both involved in different aspects of the Club including Executive and recent fundraising.
Dunboyne Athletic Club added: 'Dunboyne AC is deeply saddened to learn of the untimely passing of our club member Rachel McManus. Rachel was part of the Juvenile training group and competed for Dunboyne on multiple occasions including winning Silver at the 2017 Leinster Cross Country Relays.'
