RIP: Late Tipperary girl was 'full of life in every possible way'

The funeral of Harriet Penfold took place last Friday afternoon, November 28.

The Clonmore native passed away on November 21.

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Harriet is sadly missed by her mum Joanna, dad Gerald, sister Zoe, brothers Oliver and James, grandmother Elizabeth, uncle Jeffrey, aunts Nicola, Claire, Tracey and Alona, close friends and neighbours.

She laid in repose in Grey’s Funeral Home Templemore on Thursday evening.

Harriet’s funeral Mass took place in St Mary’s Church, Templemore on Friday, November 28, at 12pm, with interment in Killavanogue Cemetery Clonmore afterwards.

Harriet’s family shared a touching tribute to social media following her passing, saying: “A post I never imagined having to post. It is with an empty and broken heart that I share this devastating news on behalf of the Penfold family.

“Our beautiful Harriet has peacefully passed away, surrounded by her mum Jo, dad Ger, her little sister Zoe and her brother Oliver — a room filled with heartbreak, love, and memories that will be treasured for the rest of our lives.

“Harriet was full of life in every possible way — caring, funny, talented, determined, with a smile and an infectious laugh that could lift anyone’s spirits. She had a natural warmth that drew people in, and she made friends effortlessly, touching lives in ways she never realised.

“As a sister, she loved with her whole heart. She had a way of convincing Zoe or Oliver to do things even when they knew Mum and Dad might not approve, and those moments are now treasured memories. She was always someone you could turn to — for advice, a laugh, a chat, or simply the comfort only she could give.

“As our daughter, our miracle. She couldn’t have made us more proud. With her mum, she shared endless conversations, laughter, and a deep, intuitive closeness.

“With her dad, she shared strength, humour, and that stubborn determination that always made us smile. From the moment she arrived, Harriet filled our world with joy. She gave her whole heart to everything she did, and her love for life made even ordinary days feel special.

“She was thoughtful in all the small, beautiful ways — the quick hugs, the quiet check-ins, the way she noticed when someone was struggling. Her kindness, courage, and gentle spirit made her our bright, beautiful girl, and she gave us more love and pride than we could ever have asked for.

“As a friend, all who attended the prayer service and the outpouring of messages says it all. She connected with people so naturally and will be remembered as a loyal, funny, loving friend to so many.

“Thank you to the hospital staff and everyone who helped Harriet at the scene. We are forever grateful. We know that her light, her joy, her beautiful infectious laugh and love will stay with us forever.

“Forever Young our beautiful girl Harriet. Rest in peace.”

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The Association of Irish Riding Clubs shared their condolences with the family, saying: “The Association is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Harriet Penfold. Jo and Ger have been wonderful advocates for the Association, and we extend our deepest condolences to them and their family during this difficult time. May Harriet rest in peace.”

Irish Olympian showjumper Greg Broderick also aired his sadness following Harriet’s passing, saying: “An incredibly sad day for the Penfold family, for all Harriet’s friends and the whole equestrian community.

“We were so lucky to have Harriet work with us at Ballypatrick for four years and what an impression she left on everyone here.

“She was simply part of our extended family and everyone knew we could trust her 100% as a colleague and a friend.

“What a fabulous girl. A breath of fresh air. She loved horses so much and always so positive & determined. She took every piece of help she was given rolled up her sleeves and put it into practice straight away. Always trying to make herself and the horses she worked with better but at the same time always so supportive of everyone around her.

“Her parents Ger & Jo could be so proud to have raised such a fabulous girl that was simply so genuine. A loving sister to Oliver and little sister Zoe. She left a mark on us all that won’t be forgotten. We will remember her smiling because that’s how she always was.

“Thank you for everything Harriet. We will miss you very much.”

Many people online left kind messages of remembrance, with one person saying: “So sorry to hear about Harriet passing. Worked with her in prac stables. She was a very nice person and was always very helpful. Thinking of you all at this difficult time. May she rest in peace.”

Another said: “My deepest condolences to Joanna, Gerald, and the entire Penfold family. I have such warm memories of working alongside Harriet, and she will be deeply missed. Sending all my love.”

A keen horserider, Harriet left her mark on those she worked with.

One message from Horse Sport Ireland read: “On behalf of the Board and Management of Horse Sport Ireland, we express our deepest condolences to Jo, Ger, Zoe, Oliver and James, to Harriet’s grandmother Elizabeth, uncle and aunts and to her extended family and friends. There are no words that can ease such pain. May the Lord comfort you all at this time of heartbreaking grief.”

Another message said: “There are no words to express how sad we were to hear of Harriet’s sudden death. She was a talented rider and a credit to you all. We are thinking of you through this difficult time. May Harriet rest in peace.”