The late Shona Magee, a lifelong lover of animals, was remembered fondly by friends, family, and the community as a woman who embodied kindness, dedication, and a deep connection to her furry companions.
Ms. Magee died on March 20 at the South West Acute Hospital, and her death has been met with great shock and sadness across the community.
A service for the life of Ms. Magee took place yesterday [Wednesday March 26] at Lakeland Crematorium, Cavan following a removal from the funeral home.
The service was conducted by Funeral Director Marcus Madill who shared heartfelt anecdotes that painted a picture of Ms. Magee's unwavering devotion to her dogs.
He recounted the story of Ms. Magee's first dog, Anna, with warmth and affection.
“No one in Enniskillen will be surprised that while out walking Anna, and her friend's alsatian, that Shona jumped in the harbour after the dog jumped in, to save it from being crushed by a boat,” Mr. Madill said.
Ms. Magee's love for her pets was ever-present in her life. “Shona’s babies were her three dogs, Sin, Gem, and Lady, who have all sadly passed.
“I’d like to think that today they have all met up somewhere.”
Dog walking was a constant in Ms. Magee's life, explained Mr. Madill.
“Someone said to me yesterday that Shona would always stop for a chat if you had a dog; she would never remember the person's name, but always remembered the dog’s name.”
Though Lisbellaw was home, Ms. Magee's love for adventure took her far and wide. She spent time in Germany, Egypt and Italy.
“Her final big trip was a safari in Africa,” Mr. Madill shared. “She decided to go on this trip for her 60th, but for some reason, she went the year before, luckily missing the Covid travel restrictions.
“Her friends often wondered if she secretly knew something.”
Ms. Magee's generosity and warmth extended beyond her travels and her love for animals. She had a unique ability to make friends wherever she went, whether through her work or while out walking her dogs.
“Shona was kind, generous and thoughtful to those she loved and gave her time and energy to help those she considered friends,” Mr. Madill said, encapsulating her spirit of selflessness.
“Although she lived in Enniskillen, she would often visit her mum in Berwick and catch up with as many relatives and friends as she could.”
Ms. Magee's compassion extended beyond her loved ones in life.
Shona was in many ways a selfless person, and she had registered as an organ donor so that even after she had gone, she still gave what was hers to save someone else's life,” Mr. Madill remarked, offering one final testament to Ms. Magee's enduring generosity.
The late Shona Magee is survived by her mother, Catherine; her sister, Morag; niece, Sky, and her circle of friends.
She was predeceased by her father, Neil.
Funeral arrangements were conducted by Marcus Madill Funeral Director.
