The funeral mass of Margaret McGonigle and her daughter Mairead Mundy took place this morning at St Conal's Church in Bruckless.

The deaths of three Donegal women in a car crash has devastated their local community, their funerals have been told.

Thousands of people attended the funerals of the women in Bruckless today, where the community unites in shock and grief.

The funeral of Margaret and Mairead’s close friend Rachel Battles is taking place this evening in the same church.

The three women died after a car crash in Co Louth on Friday.

Parish priest in Bruckless Fr James Sweeney says the deaths have been a huge blow to everyone who knew them.

“Death is always difficult to deal with but the death of two members of one family and a family friend leaves with us a very acute pain,” he said.

The women killed in the horrific road crash. Pic by Northwest Newspix.

“The sense of loss can almost be overwhelming and indeed very difficult for the human mind to comprehend.

“The community has rallied together over the last few days to support all the families involved. The sense of community spirit has brought the parish together helping to provide all the support and assistance we can humanly give.

“This tragedy has devastated the community and a sense of shock permeate the parish.”