THIS is the heartbreaking first picture of the “beautiful” woman who was found dead in a house in Waterford city over the weekend.
Gillian Curran, originally from Tramore, is understood to have been staying in the house on O’Brien Street where her body was found.
The 47-year-old woman was found unresponsive at the residence shortly after 10am on Saturday and was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
A 34-year-old man made no reply on Sunday when charged with the murder of Gillian.
He was remanded in custody by Judge Kevin Staunton with an order that he get medical and psychiatric attention and will appear before Waterford District Court next Tuesday via video link.
A death notice online told how Gillian, who is predeceased by her father Michael, died in “tragic circumstances”.
It added: “Deeply mourned by her loving and much loved mother Mary, Gillian will be sadly missed by her sisters Clodagh, Jenny, Tara, Erika and brother Michael and their families.
“She will be fondly remembered by her godfather Fr. Roddy Curran, her uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family and friends.”
Gillian will be laid to rest following a private funeral service and her family have said donations can be made in her memory to Women’s Aid or the Brill Family Resource Centre in Waterford.
Mourners have described Gillian as “kind, friendly sensitive and fun” in heartbreaking tributes to her following her tragic passing.
One said: “So sad to hear about Gillians passing on Saturday. What a tragic waste of a young bubbly girl.
“Gillian brightened every life she came in contact with. I feel so sorry for both families caught up in this sad tragedy.
“Hope you find peace in the afterlife Gillian. Rest easy.”
Another friend said: “My heartfelt condolences to all the Curran family at this unimaginable time.
“So many happy memories shared with beautiful Gillian.
She will be dearly missed.”
Brill Family Resource Centre
“She was kind, thoughtful, funny, beautiful and intelligent. A beautiful soul with an infectious laugh. You couldn’t but love her.”
A third pal described Gillian as a “beautiful person” who was “so highly thought of in Tramore”, whilst another mourner said: “Gillian had a lovely kind soul and always greeted me with a warm smile.”
Brill Family Resource Centre said: “On behalf of all of the management in Brill Frc, and especially her colleagues, we would like to convey our deep condolences to the family.
“Please know that Gillian was thought of very highly in BRILL Family Resource Centre and was very well liked. She will be dearly missed. We wish the family strength and send you love during this difficult time.”
GARDA PROBE
A senior investigating officer has been appointed to lead the murder investigation and an incident room has been established at Waterford Garda Station.
A family liaison officer has been assigned to support the family.
Gardai have urged anyone who may have any information to come forward.
A garda spokesperson said: “Gardai are appealing for witnesses to contact them and are seeking any available camera footage, including dashcam recordings, from those who were in the vicinity of O’Brien Street at the time of the incident.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Waterford Garda Station on 051 305322 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
“Investigations are ongoing.”
