Heartbreak at death of Laois bakery café worker

HEARTBROKEN tributes have been paid to a popular Laois bakery café staff member, who passed away this week after a brave battle with cancer.

Dora (Dorota) Gabrysiak was a familiar smiling face at Mueller & O’Connell Bakery in Abbeyleix and previously worked at Costa in Portlaoise.

Originally from Poland, the mother of two made her home in Portlaoise and was loved by friends and customers for her cheerful personality and unfailing kindness.

In a heartfelt post on social media last night, Mueller & O’Connell Bakery management said: ‘With broken hearts, we share the incredibly sad news that our beloved Dora has passed away.

‘Dora was more than just a part of our team — she was the heart and soul of our bakery. Her warm smile, gentle kindness, and unwavering love for people made her unforgettable to everyone who walked through our doors. Every customer felt it — the genuine care in her words, the joy in her presence and the magic in the way she made everyone feel welcome.

'Over the past few months, Dora showed a strength and grace that deeply moved us all. Her faith, her courage, and her incredible spirit were a light during her brave battle with cancer. Though she has now found her rest, her memory will live on in every corner of this place she helped shape.

'We were so proud when Dora received a Customer Service Excellence Award — a true testament to the person she was. But no award could ever truly capture the love and admiration we have for her.

'We are heartbroken, and we know so many of you will feel this loss alongside us. Please keep Dora’s family in your thoughts, and we kindly ask for privacy for them during this difficult time.

'Thank you, Dora, for everything. You will always be part of us.’ 

Hundreds of followers paid warm tributes to Dora on the post, with one commenting: ‘She was such a beautiful lady, with a heart of gold and such a wonderful smile, only some of her beautiful attributes.’

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.