Friends of talented Louth photographer start fundraiser to help her late husband and their four young children

A GoFundMe set up for the family of a young Co Louth mother who died tragically on Sunday June 23 “under heart-breaking circumstances” has already raised over €26,000.

Naomi James, nee Boyle, from Mount Avenue, Dundalk died suddenly in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, leaving behind her heartbroken husband Michael and their four young children, Sadie, twins Seth and Avery and newborn Cal. She is also survived by her parents Hassan and Lucy (nee Cooney), brother Adam, sister-in-law Mallory, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.

Friends have been paying tribute to the young Mum who was a talented photographer, with her own business Nay Photography, specialising in wedding and family photography.

The GoFundMe was set up by fellow photographer Claire Brown who said her death “has left the James family devastated, both emotionally and financially.”

"We are setting up this GoFundMe campaign to rally around the James family during this incredibly challenging time. Our goal is to raise as much as possible to help alleviate some of the financial burdens they are facing.”

She recalled Naomi as “a talented photographer, devoted wife, a nurturing mother, and a compassionate friend to all who knew her. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support touched many lives. As the primary caregiver and a significant contributor to the family’s income, her absence leaves an unimaginable void.”

“The James family is now facing numerous unexpected expenses, including funeral costs, household bills, and day-to-day living expenses. The financial strain comes at a time when they should be focusing on healing and supporting one another through their grief.”

Claire said that the money raised by the GoFundMe campaign will be used to cover the funeral and memorial expenses, the family’s immediate living costs (rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries), childcare and educational expenses, and counselling and support services for the family

“Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference and provide much-needed relief to the James family.,” she said.

She appealed to those unable to contribute financially, for their prayers, love, and support to help the James family navigate this difficult journey.

The campaign has already raised over €26,000 of its €30,000 goal and Claire thanked those who supported it for their “generosity, compassion, and for standing with the James family in their time of need.

“Together, we can help them find some peace and stability as they cope with this unimaginable loss.”

Naomi had attended the Grace Christian School in Dundalk and studied beauty therapy at the Southern Regional College, Newry. She subsequently studied at the Copenhagen International Masters Commission and at the Fitzwilliam Institute, Dublin, before following her passion for photography.

She had married her beloved Michael in 2015 and was the adoring mother of their young children. She is remembered as a loving and caring person who would reach out to those in need. In 2020, she set up her own GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to say ‘thank you’ to HSE frontline workers during the pandemic.

She was a member of the La Leche League in Dundalk and had at represented the branch in Àras an Uachtaranin 2018.

Her friends have been paying tribute on rip.ie, with one writing, “To say my heart is broken, is an understatement. You brought such joy and love to all those who had the privilege to meet you. You leave behind 4 beautiful children and I have no doubt that Michael will raise them to be amazing human beings. I will miss our morning chats, Naomi. You were one of the genuine ones.”

"I have no words to say only trusting God for peace at a time like this. Naomi was always a pleasure to chat to and always smiling…our little throwback was always when she was in a school play dressed as a sheep and we would both sing the song before we’d even catch up on conversation. Heaven has certainly gained an angel,” said another.

Naomi is reposing at McGeoughs Funeral home, Jocelyn Street, Dundalk from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday June 26 for family and friends. A service honouring Naomi’s life will take place on Thursday at 2.30pm in Dardistown Crematorium (K67HP26), Cremation will follow afterwards.

Family flowers only House Private at all times.

Get ahead of the day with the morning headlines at 7.30am and Fionnán Sheahan's exclusive take on the day's news every afternoon, with our free daily newsletter.