Tributes paid to Jade after sudden death

Tributes paid to Jade after sudden death

7 December 2016

TRIBUTES have been paid to young Carryduff woman Jade Smith who passed away last week.

The 22 year-old complained of feeling unwell on Monday afternoon before being taken to hospital later that evening, where her health deteriorated rapidly and she died early on Tuesday morning.

It’s suspected she had contracted meningococcal disease.

Her funeral service was held at St Ignatius Parish Church in Carryduff last Friday. Ahead of the service, church rector, the Rev Stephen Lowry, spoke of the grief in the young woman’s home town.

“There’s a shadow hanging over Carryduff today as we come to terms with the death of a wonderful daughter and good friend to many in our community. 

“Jade Smith was a young woman who loved life and enriched the lives of everyone around her with her fun and colour,” he said.

The former nail technician student at Belfast Metropolitan College had been working as a sales assistant in Primark. She had previously worked as a promoter for Thompson’s Garage nightclub.

Mr Lowry paid tribute to the popular former pupil of Saintfield High School, saying: “She was blessed with a bright nature and a warm, friendly approach to people and she took delight in her many friends.

“Some of her friends have described her as ‘the best’ and the staff at Carryduff Primary School and Saintfield High School have expressed their sorrow at her family’s loss.”

Ms Smith’s funeral service took place at the church where she was once a regular as a member of the Rainbow Guides. More recently, she offered her nail-painting skills to Killynure Community Association, a group that meets in the church hall.

Mr Lowry added: “It is our privilege at Carryduff Parish to offer our support as a church family to Jade’s parents — Richard and Kelly — and siblings Jordan and Megan as they come to us for her funeral.”

Ahead of last Friday’s service, Jade’s family requested those attending wore colourful attire and that, if desired, donations should be made to Meningitis Research Foundation, care of Norman McBriar & Son Funeral Directors in Saintfield.