Urgent Update: Couple Planned Deaths, Leaves Heartbreaking Message

UPDATE: A tragic inquest reveals that a married couple, Tony and Phyllis Gilbert, both aged 83, planned their deaths weeks before their bodies were discovered in their home in Kenmare, Co Kerry on November 14, 2021. The couple left a poignant recorded message for their family, stating, “We have been together in life, now we are together in sleep.”

The alarm was raised by their daughter-in-law, Beryl Gilbert, who found a note pinned to the front door warning, “All going to plan we should be dead.” This chilling message prompted Beryl to contact Garda authorities immediately.

Beryl, who regularly shopped for the couple, became concerned after noticing Phyllis’s declining health. During her last visit, Phyllis appeared unwell, and Tony mentioned they had visited their solicitor to prepare a will. The couple had moved from England to Ireland in 1993 and ran a glass engraving business before becoming increasingly reclusive, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Garda James Hendricks reported entering the home after receiving Beryl’s call, discovering both individuals deceased in a bedroom, lying together in two beds. There were no signs of struggle or restraint.

A postmortem examination conducted by Chief State Pathologist Dr. Linda Mulligan revealed no trauma or injuries to the bodies. Toxicology results indicated that the couple had consumed a poisonous substance, leading to their deaths. Dr. Mulligan stated that given their health issues, death would have been swift, akin to falling asleep.

The inquest revealed that Phyllis Gilbert was suffering from Stage 4 pancreatic cancer, which had spread throughout her body. Coroner Aisling Quilter confirmed that the evidence indicated the couple had intentionally planned their deaths, driven largely by Phyllis’s deteriorating health.

In a heartbreaking twist, Dr. Mulligan noted that money had been sent to their granddaughter Felicity, with instructions to share it with her sister. The couple’s final message was captured on tape, clearly articulating their intentions and the reasons behind their tragic decision.

Coroner Quilter recorded a verdict of suicide for both deaths, acknowledging the profound emotional context surrounding this case. This deeply affecting story highlights the struggles faced by couples dealing with severe health crises and the heart-wrenching decisions they sometimes make.

As this story develops, it raises critical questions about mental health support and the resources available to individuals in similar situations. The community in Kenmare is left to grapple with the loss of Tony and Phyllis Gilbert, whose story has touched many hearts.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.