“Marie Kiernan was simply one of the most incredible people you’ll ever meet. We’re all struggling to come to terms with the fact she’s gone.”
This is just one of the poignant tributes pouring in for Carnoustie mum-of-two Marie Kiernan.
The 49-year-old former Royal Bank of Scotland worker passed away on Tuesday, July 26, following a courageous battle against bile duct cancer.
‘We miss her already’
A key player in the steering group Dundee United Supporters Foundation (DUSF) and a member of East Angus Arabs, both the club and foundation have paid tribute to the wife, mum and lifelong Tangerines supporter who spent her time making sure everyone around her felt loved and valued.
Ged Bell, who served alongside Marie at the foundation, can’t believe his friend is gone.
He said: “Through one of the most challenging times in her life Marie remained positive.
“There was no-one like her.
“To give you an idea of what she was like, the foundation is now a 2000-member organisation and if at all possible Marie would make sure every bit of contact was as personal as possible.
“She’d pick up the phone, go out of her way… her whole life was the extra mile. I can’t tell you how much we miss her already.”
Always Dundee United
Marie, who was married to Paul, was born and brought up in Carnoustie, though lived in Dundee for a period before moving back home in 2005 to raise her family.
When she became redundant from her Royal Bank of Scotland role in 2015, she went on to run the For Carnoustie charity shop.
It was 2017 when she joined the supporter foundation – but her love of all things Dundee United started much earlier.
Aged five, at her first game at Tannadice, her dad suggested she try Dens the following week before she made a decision on which team to support.
But an adamant Arab was already born.
Inspirational woman
Educated at Carnoustie High School, Marie was once asked what her favourite memory was.
She replied that it was watching the 2010 Scottish Cup Final with her husband – who she met in the Snug Bar – and their two children.
The DUSF said: “Marie was invaluable to the group. Her impact in establishing the Foundation cannot be overstated.
“Her common sense, matter-of-fact approach were her hallmarks.
“And her organisational skills were heavily relied on and greatly appreciated throughout her career.
“But more than that she was loved for being a wonderful caring person who always thought of others even when she was fighting a courageous battle with her own illness.
“Her positive outlook even in the worst of circumstances was an absolute inspiration.”
Tributes
East Angus Arabs also posted a heartfelt social media tribute.
They wrote: “Sometimes these words can be extremely difficult to find – not on this occasion.
“Marie was an absolutely wonderful person – warm, loving, fanatical, feisty and a reliable friend.”
It continued: “Marie – we love you and will never forget you.”
Adding their condolences, Dundee United said: “Our deepest sympathies to husband Paul, son Jamie, daughter Rebecca and to all of Marie’s family and friends.
“Marie touched so many people in such a good way.
“We hope the great memories she engendered may in some way help to sustain them during this difficult time.”
Lynn Evans of For Carnoustie added: “Marie was a loyal employee and over many years built up the shop to be a successful charitable organisation.
“She will be missed by us all.”
‘She was a legend’
While Marie’s family come to terms with their loss and wish to grieve privately, well wishes continue to pour in.
Ged added: “It’s not too strong a sentiment to say Marie was a bit of a legend.
“She thoroughly deserves an incredible tribute. And you’ll see from all the comments [on social media] that she was the same with everyone…she just loved and cared all the time.
“The last almost 18 months have been so incredibly difficult for her but she never complained. She just kept trying to make a difference.
“My family and hers have become close over the four years we’ve known each other.
“And I can say with some confidence I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone quite like Marie.”
Conversation