Bernie O'Neill: Tributes to respected Lurgan businesswoman who touched the lives of many through her Perfect Day wedding brand

An award-winning entrepreneur, Mrs O’Neill (née Doran) of Cottage Road, Lurgan died on October 25, 2026, peacefully in Craigavon Area Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

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Bernadette (Bernie), was the beloved wife of Ciaran and dearly loved daughter of Seamus and the late Eileen Doran (Castlewellan), a loving sister of Noreen, dear sister-in-law of Martin O’Neill, and cherished aunt of Charlette and Elza.

Bernie’s funeral will leave the family home on Wednesday at 9.15am to arrive at St. Peter’s Church, Lurgan, for Requiem Mass at 10.00am. Burial will take place afterwards at St Colman’s Cemetery.

The family respectfully requests that the house remain private, with family and close friends welcome.

Bernie had been battling cancer since 2019 having had a diagnosis of follicular lymphoma – a slow-growing type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Recently she began to share her experiences through a social media page ‘My Cancer Journey’.

Sadly Bernie’s mum Eileen died in August this year having also suffered from cancer.

Colleagues her at business in Lurgan, Perfect Day, said it was ‘with the heaviest of hearts’ that they announced the passing of their beloved founder and owner.

“Bernie was the heart and soul of Perfect Day & Night, and her loss is deeply felt by all who knew and loved her. Our thoughts, love and prayers are with her husband, Ciaran, her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

“As we come to terms with this profound loss, our boutiques will be temporarily closed as we take time to grieve, reflect and honour Bernie’s memory.

“We know that Bernie touched the lives of so many people throughout the years, particularly the brides and families who trusted her to be part of their most special moments. We would love to hear your memories of Bernie, or of the special times you shared with her at Perfect Day & Night.

“Your kind words and stories would mean more to us than we can express and would be a beautiful way to celebrate the life and legacy of someone so special.

“To our cherished customers, brides, friends and the wider community, thank you for your kindness, compassion and understanding during this heart breaking time. The love and support you have shown us mean the world as we navigate this loss.”

Dawn of Getting Married NI Bridal Magazine said of her ‘dear friend’: “Bernie was far more than a work associate—she was a cherished friend.

"Bernie was someone who brought so much kindness, fun, and dedication to everything she did. Having her as a friend and working alongside her was an honour, her absence will be deeply felt by all of us and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

"Our love, thoughts, and deepest sympathies go to Ciaran, her family, loved ones, and friends during this heart breaking time.”

Her friend Dolores Fearon said: “Bernie was one of the kindest, most generous people you could ever meet. She touched so many lives through her beautiful shops — Perfect Day and Perfect Night — and was a true friend to so many.

"She leaves behind her devoted husband Ciaran, and her beloved dogs Ollie and Rosie.”