Fundraiser grows and tributes flow after Scott Snodgrass’ widow Roisin “Rosie” Maitland from Coffs Harbour dies suddenly
Heartbreaking tributes have poured in as a community rallies behind four children orphaned in a cruel double tragedy – first with the violent death of their father and now the sudden loss of their mother.
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Four Coffs Harbour children have been orphaned in a cruel double tragedy – first with the death of their father when he was punched to the ground after a night out in 2013 and now the sudden loss of their mother.
As the community grapples with the shock death of Roisin Maitland, known widely as Rosie, the cruelty of the situation has been hard to fathom.
“I just can’t understand how cruel life can be for some,” Merrie Hunt wrote in one of the countless tributes following the shocking news.
Roisin Maitland died suddenly at her home in Korora just north of Coffs Harbour on Thursday, February 20.
Best friend Jodie Powick says it appears to have been a medical episode but an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
“She was my best friend and I’m just lost without her – but I’m just so worried about the kids,” Ms Powick, who owns Glenreagh General Store and is also a nurse at Coffs Harbour hospital, said.
She has established a GoFundMe campaign to help pay for funeral expenses and support Josie, Archie, Sarah and Eve as they face an uncertain future without either of their parents.
“Even now, as I try to find the words, I’m still just trying to breathe,” Ms Powick said.
“Her passing was sudden and unexpected and we are all in shock. She leaves behind four precious children, four of the most innocent souls who are now facing a cruel world without their mother or father.”
The campaign has already raised well over $32,000 and is climbing.
She first met Rosie when they were at university together in Armidale and says she was passionate, funny, talented and incredibly smart.
It was Jodie who introduced Rosie to Scott Snodgrass and they hit it off immediately and started a family together.
Their youngest child Archie was just two years old when his father Scott, who was 34 at the time, was punched and knocked to the ground at a taxi rank in the CBD in May 2013 after he had been drinking at The Coast Hotel.
The 21-year-old who hit Scott told police he acted in self defence and was not charged.
The Coroner ruled Mr Snodgrass’ death was caused by severe head injuries which were suffered when his head hit the concrete footpath after he was struck to the face by a single punch.
Rushed to hospital, he was later flown to Newcastle’s John Hunter Hospital, but never regained consciousness and died two days later.
In 2015, The Coast Hotel was convicted and fined for allowing his intoxication.
Jodie says Rosie was “shattered but never gave up” raising their four children on her own.
“She fought through unimaginable pain just to keep going for them,” Jodie said.
“I do truly believe that she died of a broken heart.”
Her children were her entire world and everything she did was for them, Jodie said.
“While our hearts break for the loss of our precious Rosie, we take comfort in knowing she is now reunited with Scott in heaven, watching over their children together.”
No matter the amount, she urges people to support the fundraising campaign.
“Let’s honour Rosie’s legacy by ensuring her children feel the love and support she gave so freely to everyone around her.”
Got a news tip? Email: janine.watson@news.com.au
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