Much-loved Tyrone mum dies weeks after ‘amazing day’ at dream wedding

Danielle Collins (35) died peacefully at home on Monday.

The mother-of-five from Drumquin had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of stomach cancer, called adenocarcinoma, last year.

Her husband Darren said he was “absolutely heartbroken”. The childhood sweethearts had married in late July.

Knowing that Danielle may not have long to live, they wanted to marry as soon as possible — and the local community rallied around to ensure it happened.

The couple had reached out on social media for help to organise the wedding, and were overwhelmed with the response with more than 500 people donating to a fundraising appeal, and almost £23,000 raised.

At the time Danielle told the Belfast Telegraph: “I had an absolutely amazing day — everything was just perfect. I can’t thank everyone enough for everything.”

Photographs from the day showed the couple, who got engaged in October 2021, exchanging vows and sharing a dance afterwards.

However, just three months later, Darren is preparing to say a final farewell.

A death notice said Danielle’s passing was “very deeply regretted” and she will be “sadly missed by her entire family circle.”

Drumquin GAA Club was among those paying tribute.

It posted: “We were deeply saddened to hear of the death of Danielle Collins, club member and an immensely proud mum to our players, Edward and Shanice.

“Our thoughts have been with Danielle these past few months as she courageously fought her illness.

“Despite her unbearable pain, she was always on the sideline supporting her kids, an inspiration to us all.”

Danielle’s funeral will take place from the family home on Thursday for Requiem Mass at 2pm in St Patrick's Church, Langfield, Drumquin, with interment afterwards in the adjoining churchyard.