Thomasina and Patrick Tobin have been remembered as ‘generous in every way’ at their funeral after their sudden deaths in August.

The couple, who were on holiday with their two teenage children, were found dead in a hot tub in a Spanish villa.

Thomasina, formerly of Cabra, Castleblayney, and Patrick, originally from Wellington, New Zealand, lived in with their children, Rhea and Seamus, in Greenwich.

The couple’s joint funeral took place on Friday, September 18, at Our Lady of Knock Church, Ballintra, Co Monaghan.

Mourners heard how Rhea and Seamus were the centre of their parents’ lives. Rev Canon Patrick McGinn remembered Thomasina as a kind and loving mum, while Patrick was remembered for his devotion to his family.

Rev McGinn said: ‘Patrick and Thomasina built a wonderful life in Greenwich with Rhea and Seamus. Those children were the absolute centre of his life.

‘Paddy and Thomasina welcomed everybody into their home on family visits. They were so generous in every way.’

Patrick was also remembered for his enthusiasm for sport, having previously thrown himself into the likes of rugby, cricket, hockey, water polo, football, skiing, and surfing.

Rev McGinn joked: ‘I get tired even mentioning all those things.’

At the funeral, Thomasina was remembered for her kindness, with Rev McGinn saying: ‘She knew the people who had helped her along the way, and she passed this kindness on to other people. In her spare time, she was even governor of a school.’

Speaking about the scale of loss facing both families, he told mourners: ‘All we can do is huddle and grieve around the remains of shattered dreams and what might have been. We do have many questions, but we don’t really have many answers as to the whys of life.’

Personal items were brought forward to reflect Thomasina and Patrick’s lives, including a family photograph and a photo of Patrick skiing with his friends.

A sacred New Zealand greenstone was also brought forward during the funeral, representing strength, spirit and a connection between people and the land.

Thomasina’s life and career were represented by a hard hat she wore on construction sites. Also among the gifts were quirky cards she took joy in sending to loved ones.

Thomasina’s brother, John McArdle, thanked the local community and clergy for the support they had shown the family through this difficult time.