RIP: 'Most beautiful Mayo lady' sparks sadness upon passing

SHEILA Coughlan (née Mongan), Springfield, Castlebar, Mayo, who died recently in the family home, was a sister of Bridie McDonagh, The Grove, Ballindine.

She was predeceased some weeks ago in early January by her sister, Josie Mongan, Kennedy Gardens, Castlebar, and a renowned member of the staff at Hynes Shoes on Main Street, Castlebar.

Sheila was one of five daughters (Mary died in infancy) born to Delia and Michael Mongan and she and her sisters Kathleen, Josie and Bridie were greatly regarded members of the Ballindine community in those times.

Her joyful, engaging and compassionate nature was always to the fore and she was a lady of strong and abiding faith.

Laughter was always at hand when Sheila was about and had many friends in various groups around the general Castlebar area, including the bingo fraternity in Ballyheane.

The SMA Community in Claregalway was among those joining in the tributes to Sheila. “Our SMA community will remember Sheila for her many years of support of our missionary work in 16 African countries.”

Her cousin, Patricia Carty from Waynestown, Dunboyne, Meath, shared memories of Sheila and the Mongan sisters and their sporting interests over the years.

“I attended many Connaught finals with Jarlath and Harry in Castlebar and Mary Jo would stay with Sheila and Josie while we brought Tommy to the match.

“Sheila got a match ticket for me in 1996 when Meath drew with Mayo in the All Ireland Final, only for Meath to beat them by a point in the replay.

"Sheila was the most beautiful lady, and I always remember those ladies laughing non-stop when they got together.”

Oliver Lynch in Salthill, Galway, stated: “I have known Sheila for nearly sixty years and always found her to be a kind and caring lady. It would be hard to find a more sincere and loyal couple than herself and her late husband Tommy.”

Mary McGreal, Derrygarve, Westport, was also among those paying tributes to Sheila. “She was a pleasure to meet and always had a beautiful smile.

"I am privileged to have known Sheila over many decades by being involved in the ICA.

“I hope all the lovely memories you all have of her will help console you at this very sad and difficult time and may Sheila rest peacefully in the arms of the Angels.

Reposing was in Coady’s Funeral home, Castlebar, with removal to her residence. Requiem Mass was celebrated the next morning in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar, and was followed by interment in Castlebar Old Cemetery.

Sheila, who was predeceased by her husband Tommy, her sisters Mary, Kathleen and Josie and her nephew Gregory, will be sadly missed by her daughters Deirdre, Mairéad (Jennings) and Julie, son John, her sister Bridie (Ballindine), son-in-law JP, daughter-in-law Sinead, grandchildren Leah, Emma, Adam, Tommy and Alanna, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.