Irish singer 'absolutely devastated' after untimely death of his beloved girlfriend

Heartfelt tributes have been paid following the death of Ciara Gunning, the girlfriend of Irish singer Luke Thomas, who said he was "absolutely devastated" after her passing.

Ciara, from Alderwood Park, Springfield, Dublin 24 and formerly of Athboy, Co Meath, died peacefully in St. Vincent's Private Hospital, Dublin, surrounded by her family.

Sharing a collection of photos on social media, The Swing Cats star Luke Thomas summed up his heartbreak in just two words, writing: "Absolutely devastated."

Ciara's death notice on RIP.ie states that she "passed away peacefully in St. Vincent's Private Hospital, Dublin surrounded by her family" and that she will be "sadly missed by her heartbroken family, parents Seán and Margaret, brothers Rory and Alan (Jennifer), and her partner Luke, nieces Emma and Katie, aunts, uncles, extended family and wide circle of friends."

As news of her passing spread, an outpouring of tributes followed with friends, colleagues and loved ones remembering a woman described as kind and vibrant.

One friend wrote that Ciara was "a beautiful lady inside and out" and said her death was "a big loss to this world, and your family, Luke and friends," adding: "You will be fondly remembered and sadly missed. Thank you for your friendship. Love you to the moon and back x."

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Another tribute read: "Shocked to hear the awfully sad news of Ciara's passing. I trained Ciara for a number of years and she was the sweetest. A strong, inspiring and vibrant woman. I know she will be missed terribly by her loved ones."

Others spoke of her warmth and love of life.

"Ciara was a colleague and friend who was brilliant, intelligent, beautiful and caring she will be greatly missed by our group. It's like a light has gone out and we are heartbroken. Ciara was our "Warrior Princess "who fought hard but always stayed positive," another said.

One friend wrote: "I have so many great memories with Ciara from down through the years, from the nights in Foleys, the trips to Tenerife and Florida, the spins in the Blue Hyundai; the list is never ending. The world was a better place with Ciara in it and we will never forget her."

Another said: "Ciara was such a warm, loving, and beautiful person, and her presence meant so much to so many. The kindness and light she shared will never be forgotten. I'm thinking of all her family and loved ones and sending them strength and comfort during this heartbreaking time."

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In a message included with her RIP.ie notice, Ciara's family expressed their gratitude to hospital staff, saying:

"The Gunning family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Doctors, Nurses and staff in St. Vincent's Private Hospital Dublin, in particular the Medical Oncology Team, Cara ward nursing team and Palliative Care for the exceptional care, kindness and compassion given to Ciara throughout her illness."

Ciara will repose in Mullens Funeral Home, Athboy, on Thursday evening from 4pm to 7pm. Funeral Mass will take place on Friday morning in St. James' Church, Athboy, followed by cremation at Lakelands Crematorium in Cavan.

Family flowers only have been requested, with donations, if desired, to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation.