The family of Valerie French-Kilroy has described her as an "immensely caring and loving person", who touched the lives of many people.
Mrs French-Kilroy was killed at her home outside Westport in Co Mayo last Friday.
In a statement today, her mother and siblings said they were heartbroken. They spoke of the shock felt since news of her death emerged and said they were still trying to comprehend the scale of their loss.
Describing her as a much loved daughter, sister, niece, cousin, friend and colleague to many people, Mrs French-Kilroy's family said she had been a loving wife to her husband James and that she adored her three children.
The family has expressed its gratitude for the outpouring of sorrow in their time of loss and has thanked people for the goodwill and support shown to them.
The 41-year-old will be laid to rest following a funeral service in west Cork later this week.
Last Sunday, a 46-year-old man was charged with the murder of Valerie French-Kilroy. James Kilroy, of Kilbree Lower, Westport, was remanded in custody and is due before Harristown District Court on Friday.
