Tragic loss in County Antrim: Community mourns young woman and her father

Shelly Feeney

A close-knit community in North Antrim is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of Shelly Feeney, a woman in her 30s, who tragically passed away following a serious accident near her home in Mosside, Ballymoney.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, 14 April, has been compounded by the devastating death of Shelly’s father, James Feeney, just a day later, leaving the local community in profound grief.

Shelly Feeney was critically injured in the accident and was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast by the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance, a charity-funded service.

Despite the best efforts of medical staff in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, Shelly succumbed to her injuries on Saturday, 19 April. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through Mosside and the wider North Antrim area, where she was known and loved by many.

In a further blow to the Feeney family, Shelly’s father, James, passed away on Tuesday, 15 April, the day after his daughter’s accident. His funeral took place on Friday, 18 April, just hours before Shelly’s condition took a fatal turn.

The consecutive losses have left family, friends, and neighbours grappling with an overwhelming sense of sorrow.

The Mosside community has rallied together in the wake of this double tragedy, demonstrating the strength and solidarity for which rural Northern Ireland is renowned.

Pictured, Shelly with partner Stephen and children, Jake and Sophie

A GoFundMe appeal, launched by Rev Andre Alves-Areias of Mosside Presbyterian Church on behalf of Stephen McCrudden, has seen an extraordinary outpouring of support. Originally set with a modest target of £500, the fundraiser has raised nearly £22,000 at the time of writing – a testament to the deep affection and respect the community held for Shelley and her family.

DJM Robinson & Son has published a funeral notice for the young woman. It states:

“Shelly Feeney.

“Feeney - April 19th 2025, suddenly, the result of an accident, Shelley dearly loved partner of Stephen, 21 Knockmore Road, Mosside, much loved mother of Jake and Sophie, beloved daughter of the late James and June, dear granddaughter of Elsie and Mary Jane, much loved sister of Bobby and a dear sister-in-law, daughter-in-law, niece, aunt, cousin and friend.

“Funeral from her home on Wednesday at 10.30am to Mosside Presbyterian Church for a Service of Thanksgiving at 11.00am, burial afterwards in the adjoining graveyard. Shelley's family would like to invite those attending the funeral to wear bright colours.

“House private, with the exception of 3.00pm - 6.00pm on Tuesday when callers are welcome.

“Donations in lieu of flowers, if desired, to Air Ambulance N.I. c/o DJM Robinson & Son, 121 Culcrum Road, Cloughmills, BT44 9DT.

“Lovingly Remembered.”

Commenting on the passing of Shelly Feeney, TUV vice chairman Councillor Allister Kyle said:

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Shelly Feeney following a tragic accident last week. I know her partner well as a result of his involvement with Coleraine Football Club. The esteem in which the family is held is demonstrated by the fact that a Go Fund Me set up in the wake of the accident has already raised in excess of £20,000.”

TUV leader Jim Allister MP added:

“Every death is keenly felt by the loved ones impacted. However, when the passing is so sudden and the result of a tragic accident it is felt all the more keenly. I know there will be people over a wide area who will be upholding them in prayer at this time.”

The GoFundMe page continues to accept donations, with funds intended to assist the family with funeral costs and other expenses. Those wishing to contribute or leave a message of condolence can do so via the fundraiser’s dedicated page.