‘Ness’ Hayward remembered as life of the party at packed funeral service in North Hobart

HUNDREDS of mourners filled a Hobart chapel to farewell a vibrant young woman killed in a hit-and-run accident.

Mourners at Vanessa Hayward's funeral in North Hobart. Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

HUNDREDS of mourners filled a Hobart chapel to farewell a vibrant young woman killed in a hit-and-run accident.

Vanessa Hayward’s life was tragically cut short last week when a car failed to stop at a New Town intersection, ploughing into her sedan. Police have yet to find the driver of the car, who fled the scene.

Vanessa Hayward has been honoured by all those who loved her.

Turnbull Funerals celebrant Christine Howard said many people felt a profound sense of loss at the sudden death of the 42-year-old.

About 300 mourners filled the North Hobart chapel, with some journeying from across Australia and beyond to pay their respects.

Ms Howard told mourners “the last, difficult days” had been made a little easier for the grieving family knowing that strangers comforted “Ness” as she lay trapped in her wrecked car.

“These people went the extra mile and the family take comfort that Vanessa was cared for and comforted in the last moments of her life.”

Ms Hayward was described as compassionate, intelligent, fun-loving and sociable.

She had an ability to relate to people from all walks of life and was always ready to help those in need.

Friends and family of Vanessa Hayward outside the funeral chapel in North Hobart. Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

Empathetic, insightful, caring and loyal, she lived in the moment and was fondly remembered as the life of the party.

Talking about growing up with Ness, her younger brother Chris Hayward said she was always “way in the front and talking to everyone”.

“Ness lived on the edge and exuded life,” he said.

A wake was held at the Globe Hotel in Davey St after the service, with a memorial service to be held at the Royal Motor Yacht Club in Sydney next week.