An Irish singlet and a sample of provincial and national medals were among the gifts laid at the alter on Wednesday, May 23, as family and friends gathered at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Boherlahan to celebrate the life of Nuala Maher (née Bowe).
Her passing was described as 'a storm that's come all too quickly', with her beloved husband Kieran passing just three weeks earlier.
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Nuala formed part of the celebrated Bowe family who dominated athletics events across Tipperary and nationally for years.
Her running career saw Nuala Bowe take home; won four All Ireland gold, six silver and three bronze, eight Munster gold, two Munster silver and seven County gold and two silver along with numerous other trophies at open meetings and sports.
Her daughter Niamh gave a touching eulogy to close the mass where she focused on Nuala the person as well as the athlete.
"She was unassuming, hardworking and so generous, in so many ways. Mom used showed us not only what love really meant, but what romance looked like.
"You and Dad shared a love for each other, that you don't always get to see. It was in the little things, the way you looked at each other, the kisses you shared and your enduring friendship. You did everything together. Your love was a foundation, not just for your marriage, but for our family.
"You taught us the value of kindness, of patience, and of truly caring for the people you love, which you did for dad and for so many others. I always said you spoiled the boys, but the truth is we were all spoiled, not in a material way, putting the little things, how you looked after us, and the way you made our house feel like a home."
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