Death of Ireland's Strongest woman Trish Porter shocks local community
COUNTY WEXFORD is in shock this week mourning the sudden passing of Ireland's Strongest Woman, Trish Porter (nee Cullen).
A native of 76 Pondfields, New Ross, Trish sadly passed away on Sunday aged just 37 years at her home in Maghera, Co. Derry.
She was renowned internationally, having competed at European and world level and was at the centre of several television programmes during her life.
Her Funeral Mass is to take place today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. in St. Luke's Church, Maghera, with her burial afterwards in Polepatrick Cemetery, Magherafelt, Co. Derry.
The daughter of Anna and John Cullen, Trish was one of seven children with brothers John, Brian and Patrick and sisters Mary Theresa, Vanessa and Gabrielle.
Married to Philip Porter, whose strength is also legendary as he was the holder of Ireland's Strongest Man title in 2002, they have three loving children Kellie, Ryan and Conor, who Trish was devoted to.
Together with her husband Tricia ran the Strongman competition in Northern Ireland and was also involved in the hosting of a Strongman competition in New Ross some years ago.
For her remarkable achievement in clinching the UK Strongest Woman title for the second year in succession in 2003 Trish was honoured with a Civic Reception by New Ross Town Council in August 2003. She was also the runner up in the NABBA 2008 Miss Universe Competition.
Trish was described as a lady with a very big heart, who was always in good humour and smiling.
Although she won so many coveted titles in her life, she was modest about her achievements.
May she rest in peace.
