RIP: Mayo women sparks sadness upon passing in 99th year

ANNIE Kirrane, Parkatleva, Balla Road, Claremorris, died recently in the care of the staff at Castlebar Hospital. She was in her ninety-ninth year and one of the most senior members of the local community.

She was a member of a well-known and highly regarded family in the region. Her late brother Paddy was closely associated with the daily life of Claremorris Railway Station for many years, while Jim (Knockroe, Mayo Abbey) was prominent in farming circles and livestock activities over the decades.

Annie was an elegant lady who always made time for her kind and gracious neighbours and had an abiding fondness for her local community. Friends were welcomed warmly to her home right up to the last week of her long life.

Annie had a great recall of times gone by and could regale friends with wonderful memories from over the years. Time in her company was well spent and she embodied the spirit of rural Mayo.

Tributes included:

Áine Connolly recalled lovely memories of Annie, saying she was always in good humour and that her roses and garden were always lovely and bright.

Donna and Joe Cassidy described Annie as a wonderful neighbour who always had a warm welcome and a cup of tea and a Mars bar. Her famous brown bread was much appreciated.

Eileen Connolly said Annie was a great neighbour and family friend, full of wisdom and elegance.

Alan and Yvonne McDonagh described her as a great lady and fantastic gardener whose flowers always looked amazing.

Reposing was at Gilligan’s Funeral Home followed by removal to St Colman’s Church, Claremorris. Following Requiem Mass celebrated by Fr Peter Gannon, interment took place in St Colman’s Cemetery.

Annie was predeceased by her brothers John, Jim and Paddy and sisters-in-law Nellie and Ellen. She is survived by her niece Mary, nephew John and partner Yvonne, grandnephews Seán and Patrick, cousins, neighbours and friends.