RIP: Tributes to ecologist and 'ray of light' Tipperary woman after sad passing

Deepest sympathies to Michael and Breda O'Neill on the untimely passing of their beloved daughter Michelle, to her brother Enda sisters Niamh, Ailis, Gemma and Aoife and extended O'Neill and Marshall families we extend our heartfelt sorrow.

Michelle was indeed a "beautiful lady and had a special ray of light to everyone who had the good fortune to know and love her".

Michelle Ballyboe of Kilsheelan, Clonmel was beloved daughter of Michael and Breda (Marshall), cherished sister of Niamh, Enda, Ailis, Gemma and Aoife, adored auntie of Jack and Kate Wardick, James and Lily Strang, Hannah, Michael and Jane Prendergast and Annabel and Mick Morrissey.

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Michelle slipped away peacefully at home in the loving care of her family on Wednesday, April 2. 

Deeply missed by her adoring family, her brothers-in-law Mark, Tom and Kevin, her aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, especially Debbie, Caitríona and Sheila, her beloved pets Hugo, Bobby and Riley.

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People have been posting tributes on rip.ie:

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Michelle's passing. I had the pleasure of working with Michelle in Fehily Timoney and subsequently when she set up Cluain Ecology. She was a talented ecologist and just the sweetest, kindest person. Such a terrible loss. Thinking of Michelle's family at this heartbreaking time.

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On behalf of all the children and staff of Presentation Primary School Thurles, we express our sympathies to all of Michelle’s family and friends, especially our esteemed colleague Kate. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hAnam Dílis.

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Heartfelt condolences to Breda, Michael, Family & Friends on the sad passing of Michelle. The Irish Ecology community has lost a wonderful Botanist. Michelle was the gentlest, kindest and most modest person you could ever meet with a deep love of nature and animals. Fond memories of working with her over the years across the many highways and byways. Fond farewell Michelle, may your gentle soul rest in peace.

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So sorry to hear about Michelle. Sincere condolences to all her family.
She was such a lovely person, so kind, so caring and so genuine.
May she rest in peace.

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Rest in peace Michelle. Deepest sympathies to the O'Neill family. Michelle was a lovely person and a great ecologist to work alongside.

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Deepest condolences to Michelle's family and friends. Michelle was a great colleague and friend. She had a true love of wildlife and animals and will be remembered as a really kind and gentle person. I'll remember her enthusiasm and what great company she was on long days of fieldwork. May she rest in peace.