Tragic Loss: Mother and Two Children Die in Home Incident

Community Mourns Vanessa Whyte, James Rutledge, and Sara Rutledge

A devastating incident has claimed the lives of Vanessa Whyte and her two children, James Rutledge and Sara Rutledge. The family was found deceased at their home on Drummeer Road, Maguiresbridge, on Wednesday, July 23rd.

Deeply Loved Family Members

Vanessa is remembered as a devoted mother and a cherished daughter and sister, as well as a beloved daughter-in-law and sister-in-law. Her son, James, was a much-loved son, brother, and grandson to Ernie and Helen Rutledge. He was also a treasured nephew to Julie and Richard Hoy and a cousin to Daniel, Matthew, and Emily. Similarly, Sara was a dearly loved daughter, sister, and granddaughter to Ernie and Helen Rutledge, and a treasured niece of Julie and Richard Hoy, alongside her cousins Daniel, Matthew, and Emily.

Funeral Arrangements Announced

A Service of Removal is scheduled for Wednesday, July 30th, at 11:00 am at St. Mary’s Church, Maguiresbridge, Boyhill Road, Maguiresbridge, BT94 4LL.

Vanessa, James, and Sara will then lie in repose at The Church Of The Immaculate Conception, Barefield (V95 XA72), on Friday, August 1st, from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm. A private removal will occur Saturday morning, August 2nd, with the Funeral Cortege arriving at The Church Of The Immaculate Conception, Barefield, for Requiem Mass at 12:00 noon. Following the Mass, they will be laid to rest together in Templemaley Cemetery.

The family has requested that attendees wear bright and cheerful colours in their memory. Their house will be strictly private at all times.

Livestream Available for Services

For those unable to attend in person, the funeral mass will be livestreamed via this link.

Donations and Tributes

Family flowers are requested, with donations in lieu directed to Women’s Aid. Cheques should be made payable to Women’s Aid and sent to W T Morrison Funeral Directors, Ballycassidy House Funeral Home, 101 Killadeas Road, Enniskillen BT942ES. Online donations can be made through fermanaghwomensaid.enthuse.com.

The profound grief following such a loss can be overwhelming. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, unintentional deaths, including those from accidents, remain a significant concern, underscoring the fragility of life. In these moments, community support and remembrance are vital.

Vanessa, James, and Sara will be forever loved and remembered by the Rutledge and Whyte families and their many friends. Rest in Peace.