Creevagh, Ballyheane
Eileen Heneghan (Nee Burke) was born in October 1936, one of three daughters born to Mary and James Burke, Creevagh.
She received her primary school education in Ballintubber National school. For a number of years, after leaving school, she helped out with the work on the family farm. It was an era during which there were very few work opportunities in rural Ireland Eileen worked hard inside her home and outside on the family farm .
ON July 29, 1957 Eileen married the love of her life, John Joe Heneghan from Derrew, Ballyheane. One year later they welcomed their first born son, Seamus into the Heneghan family. Over the following years they welcomed Marion, Bernie, Angela, John, Frank, and Cathy into their lives.
Eileen and John Joe were a very industrious and hardworking couple. Over her working life Eileen worked in various jobs that included Baxter Health Care, and Taxi service. Eileen and her husband also spent a time working in England.
She was blessed with entreprenural skills and in her own words she oftentimes said “when there was a pound to be made I was there and when there was a pound to be spent I was there”.
She was blessed with a good sense of humour and a hearty laugh. She had the ability to make the visitor feel important and welcome. She enjoyed reminiscing about her younger days growing up in the village she loved so well. She welcomed the modern developments in her community and enjoyed the occasions when she travelled overseas to visit family and friends. She was a proud and happy grandmother when her grandchildren excelled in music, sport and song and was delighted to welcome her four great grandchildren into her life.
In October 2000 a great cloud of sadness enveloped her life when her husband, John Joe died suddenly and again on October 1, 2004 when her beloved granddaughter, Denise, died.
Despite suffering ill health in recent years Eileen never lost her zest for life. As she sat in her chair she enquired about the well-being of her family, neighbours and friends both overseas and at home.
In her final days she was surrounded by her caring family.
Her funeral took place from her residence to Ballintubber Abbey and after concelebrated Mass she was laid to rest in the local cemetery. Eileen and those whom we lived with and learned from most leave us the best memories. Farewell to our wonderful mother, granny, great grandmother and friend
To her family, relatives and friends we extend our sincerest sympathies. May her gentle soul rest in peace.
