Dublin granny hit by car in Massachusetts has died

Kathleen Ryder, the Dublin grandmother who was struck by a car in Worcester, Massachusetts, on September 25, has died.

Kathleen "passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family while visiting Worcester, US" on Friday, October 10, a notice on RIP.ie says.

The notice says Kathleen, of Cabinteely in Dublin, will be "very sadly missed" by her husband Liam, as well as her son and daughters, grandchildren, siblings, in-laws, and her "lifelong friends and a wide circle of friends, communities and neighbours."

“May her lively and curious soul Rest in Peace," the notice adds.

Kathleen's family will be "repatriating her home to Ireland as soon as they can," the notice on RIP.ie says, adding that funeral arrangements will be posted later.

Kathleen and her husband Liam were both struck down by a vehicle that ran a red light on Park Avenue in Worcester on Thursday, September 25.

The accident occurred only the day after the couple had arrived in the US to visit their son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.

The couple was returning from a walk around the neighborhood and attempting to cross the street when the SUV, being driven by a teenager, struck them.

84-year-old Liam, a retired school principal, had multiple hip surgeries, while 80-year-old Kathleen, a retired teacher, was in critical condition.

Prior to Kathleen's passing, the Worcester Telegram reported that, according to police, the 17-year-old driver has had his license suspended and will be summoned to court for operating to endanger, failing to yield to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk, a red light violation, and speeding.

2

William 'Liam' and Kathleen Ryder. (GoFundMe)

The couple's daughters traveled from Ireland to the US following the accident, while Liam's niece Una launched a GoFundMe with a goal of raising €60k.

The accident "resulted in severe injuries and possibly life-changing consequences," Una wrote on the GoFundMe before Kathleen's passing.

Family members told Worcester Telegram that the couple's Irish medical insurance provides a sum for medical emergencies abroad, but the funds have likely been exhausted.

"As well as assisting with medical and other expenses, it is likely that they will need ongoing care," Una wrote on the GoFundMe page.

At the time of publication on Thursday afternoon, the GoFundMe is no longer accepting donations, having raised more than €65k.

"We wish to thank all those who have supported us since this accident happened," an update on the GoFundMe page says.

"We have been overwhelmed by the expressions of support, love and compassion.

"It is truly appreciated and means so much at such a difficult time. A heartfelt thank you to each and everyone of you."