Valerie French Kilroy, aged 41, was found dead at her home in Kilbree Lower, Co. Mayo on 14th June 2019.
Valerie was an occupational therapist and a mother to three very young sons and was described as loving and caring in nature in both her personal and professional life. At her funeral in her home place of West Cork, her brother David French recalled that his sister had a wonderful laugh and said she had a great sense of fun and enjoyment, like her father, who she adored. He added, ‘Valerie could also be very serious, but only when necessary. Valerie was very practical and capable across a wide range of areas. She loved music, festivals, storytelling, art, crafts, nature, gardening and animals.’
Her husband, James Kilroy, aged 46, is charged with her murder.
Valerie’s mother, Valerie French (nee Pyburn) died five months later in November 2019 as a result of a stroke which her family believe was brought on by the enormous stress and uncertainty following the murder of her daughter. Mrs French had said to her family that “my life is ruined” after the loss of her daughter and in concern about the future of her three young grandchildren.
Women's Aid : Femicide Watch 2019 & Femicide Watch 1996-2023