Of all the well-deserved tributes to the late Maria Britton (Nee Kettyles), the most searingly eloquent one of all was the sheer numbers that packed St Michael’s church in Enniskillen on a damp Saturday morning in June.

They came from all sections of the community to say a sad Slán to one of Enniskillen’s much loved ladies, for they were saying goodbye to a woman with all the social graces and kindness in her huge heart.

Maria was the wife of the biker Richard Britton, who died in an accident in 2005. At the time of his death, he was one of Ireland's leading motorcycle road racers.

On the cover of Maria’s Memorial Card in the church there is a lovely picture of a smiling handsome woman surrounded by light blue butterflies.

It is a face full of character, and that is somehow fitting as she is now on the wing of angels in Paradise.

For Maria went from being a girl with all the graces into a woman of courage, character and charisma, and the beautiful singing in the church included the stunning Ave Maria, which was also very fitting.

In a brief eulogy, Monsignor Peter O’Reilly said this was a “most difficult day” as they were saying goodbye to someone who meant so much to so many people.

He said the congregation were gathered in sympathy with Maria’s family and he added that he knew that Maria was with “us in spirit.”

“And as we do we remember her husband Richard who passed away in 2005.”

The Monsignor said that was a very hard blow for a young woman.

“Our first sympathy is for Loris her son-for her family, for her her brothers Marius (Sarah) and Brian (Dee) and her sister Sinead Maguire (Barry).

“We also remember her late parents Brian and Patricia.”

Monsignor O’Reilly added that Maria was very well known in Enniskillen and she worked in retail here for many years and “people liked her.”

“She was so helpful to us and she started in the sports shop in Enniskillen and became a manager in a gallery and then in Eastwoods, and then in Lydon’s Sports Shop, and finally in Toytown where she was assistant manager.

“Here, her friendship was valued by her colleagues and indeed all who came in contact with her.

“Maria was a natural bubbly person who liked the outdoors-liked shopping and a social get-together.

Monsignor O’Reilly said Maria’s nature helped her considerably in her career.

“She had all the qualities that made her successful in her business and management roles.

“For she was caring and helpful and showed great kindness to all those she met and to animals.”

He added that in her earlier days she had many a Sunday bike run with her husband Richard and together with Sinead and Barry, enjoyed the trips to Donegal and they even went on honeymoon together.

“As her funeral notice said; “Deeply regretted, forever loved by her loving son Loris, sister brothers, nieces, nephews extended family and her many friends.

Formerly of Kilmacormick Drive, Enniskillen. Maria passed away on Wednesday.

A friend of Maria’s told The Impartial Reporter: “It is so hard to believe she is gone.

“Maria could light up a room with a smile and she always thought of others.

“She was so gifted, but so humble and so kind.

“She will be forever in our hearts.”