A ‘much-loved’ mum-of-two has died following a devastating car crash, just days after the sudden death of her father.
Shelly Feeney, in her 30s, passed away after a horror smash in Ballymoney, Northern Ireland.
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The tragedy unfolded last Monday morning when her car was involved in a single-vehicle collision on Knockmore Road.
A child travelling with her suffered minor injuries.
Shelly, a highly respected classroom assistant at Bushvalley Primary School, was airlifted by Air Ambulance NI to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast.
She spent five days in intensive care, bravely fighting for her life.
Tragically, she passed away on Saturday, leaving her family and community heartbroken.
Her death came just days after her father’s sudden passing, only 24 hours after her crash.
Bushvalley Primary School shared their devastation at losing a “highly esteemed and valued” staff member.
They said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family circle at this very difficult time.”
Heartfelt tributes have flooded social media as parents, colleagues, and friends spoke of Shelly’s kindness and impact.
One colleague said: “It was an absolute pleasure working with Shelley. She had a heart of gold.”
Another added: “Her passing will be felt deeply by the children and colleagues at Bushvalley.
“What a tremendous loss.”
Rachel Longwell shared: “Thinking of Shelley’s family, friends, and everyone at Bushvalley during this difficult time,” while another tribute read: “There will be a lot of very sad little ones given the impact she made on them.”
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page set up by Rev Andre Alves-Areias has raised more than £22,000 to support Shelly’s partner Stephen and their young children, Sophie and Jake.
Rev Alves-Areias, who is the minister at Mosside Presbyterian Church where Shelly’s funeral will be held, described her as a “dear friend.”
He said: “The community is really feeling the weight of what has happened, but they are rallying round in an amazing way.”
He also spoke of the overwhelming turnout at a prayer service held for Shelly, saying “almost every seat was taken” as the community came together to offer support.
The GoFundMe page explained how the family faced unexpected financial pressures with Stephen needing to stay constantly at Shelly’s bedside.
It said: “The last thing Stephen should have to worry about right now is the financial strain of being there for Shelly.”
TUV leader Jim Allister said the tragedy would be “keenly felt” across the wider area.
“When the passing is so sudden and the result of a tragic accident it is felt all the more keenly,” he said.
Vice Chairman Councillor Allister Kyle added: “The esteem in which the family is held is demonstrated by the overwhelming support for the GoFundMe appeal.”
Shelly’s funeral is set to take place on Wednesday morning. Her family has asked mourners to wear bright colours to celebrate her life.
In lieu of flowers, they are asking for donations to be made to Air Ambulance NI, whose quick response gave Shelly the best possible chance after the accident.
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