A Co Armagh community has been left reeling following the sudden passing of an 11-year-old schoolgirl.
Maddy-Leigh Harbinson, from Lurgan, passed away on Monday at Belfast’s Royal Victoria Hospital after a sudden illness.
Maddy-Leigh was a Year 8 pupil of Lismore Comprehensive.
The school, in a statement, said: “As a school community we are saddened to learn of the death of one of our Year 8 students, Maddy-Leigh Harbinson (RIP).
“Maddy-Leigh passed away yesterday suddenly but peacefully at Royal Victoria Hospital.
“Her funeral is on Thursday at 12 noon in St. Anthony’s Church, Craigavon.
“School will be open after the funeral service for anyone who would like to come together.
“On return to school after midterm break, support will be available for both students and staff.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Harbinson family and Maddy-Leigh’s friends at this time.”
Maddy-Leigh is the dearly beloved daughter of Colin and Sabrina and much loved sister of Tristen.
Her funeral will leave her late residence in Collingdale, Lurgan at 11.15am to St Anthony’s Church for Requiem Mass with interment in Lurgan Cemetery.
Her passing is very deeply regretted by her loving daddy, mummy, brother, grandparents, aunties, uncles and entire family circle.
The family has a private house and requested family flowers only with donations in lieu if desired to N.I Fibromyalgia c/o Jack McLearnon & Son Funeral Directors 75 North Street Lurgan BT67 9AH.
DUP MLA Carla Lockhart said she spoke to the family and offered her condolences.
“This is devastating news for little Maddy-Leigh’s family, friends and the local community,” said Ms Lockhart.
“A bubbly 11-year-old girl with everything to live for cut off in the prime of life.
“Having spoken to the family they are just distraught and in a state of shock. My thoughts and prayers will be with them.
“I know that there will be strong family and community support to help carry the Harbinson and McCombe family through this tragedy.”
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