Rosa Parkes died after getting into difficulty in the water on Saturday
Rosa Parkes. (Image: Facebook/Norman McBiar & Co)
The sea swimmer who tragically lost her life after encountering difficulties in the water at Helen’s Bay in Co Down over the weekend was a mother of four and a grandmother.
Rosa Parkes sadly passed away after getting into trouble in the water at Helen’s Bay beach on Saturday, January 24. A Coastguard helicopter, Rescue 936 from Caernarfon, Wales, along with Bangor and Portaferry Coastguard teams, and Bangor RNLI inshore lifeboat attended the incident, accompanied by the PSNI.
Rosa, who was in her 60s, was one of three individuals rescued from the water and taken to hospital, where she later died.
A funeral notice for Mrs Parkes describes her as the “dearly loved wife of Chris, much loved mum of Matthew, Ruth, Stephanie and John, loving mother-in-law and devoted grandma,” who passed away “doing what she loved.
“Following a private committal, a Service of Celebration will be held in Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, 4th February 2026 at 12 noon. The family would encourage floral/colourful attire to be worn for the service,” the notice states, reports Belfast Live.
“No flowers, please. Donations in lieu, if desired, to the RNLI c/o Norman McBriar and Son Funeral Directors, 37 Saintfield Mill, Saintfield, BT24 7FH.
“Family and friends are welcome to call and pay their respects at Saintfield Road Presbyterian Church Hall on Thursday 29th January 2026 between 6-9 pm, when family will be in attendance. House private.
“May she rest in peace and keep swimming in heaven.”
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.