'She was our source of strength' - Loving tributes for Mayo woman

The death took place recently in the kind care of the staff at Brookvale Manor, Ballyhaunis, of Mary Kilboyle (nee McGuinness) Farmhill, Claremorris.

Mary, who had been in declining health for some years, was a member of a well known and highly respected family in the Crossboyne region.

Her late father, John, was widely known in farming circles, especially in relation to horses, and her mother was McHugh from Bloomfield, Hollymount, and a sister of Peter McHugh. Her brother, Fr Brendan, has been parish priest of Bekan, Brickens and Logboy for several years.

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Many warm and lovely tributes have been paid to Mary by neighbours and friends including those from Hollymount-Carramore GAA Club with whom Padraic and Declan are members and Hollymount Ladies Club for whom Padraic has refereed many games in recent years.

Her brother Fr Brendan McGuinness, who was the chief celebrant at the Mass in Crossboyne Church, recalled Mary’s young days growing up in Farmhill and attending Crossboyne NS where “Edward and Mary Molloy were wonderful teachers in those days."

Among the items brought to the altar symbolizing important aspects of her life were a family photo, a rosary beads, rosettes won at shows reflecting her love for horses and animals, and a sod of turf representing her fondness for nature and the comforts of a cosy winter.

Fr Brendan also extended thanked to Fr James Quinn (who was unable to be present) for his many visits to Mary over the years; Fr Stephen Farragher, who visited her on a regular basis at the Brookvale Manor Home in Ballyhaunis, while also remembering the late Msgr Dermot Moloney (Tuam) during his years on Crossboyne. He also thanked Fr Seán Flynn and all the other priests from the diocese who were present for the Mass.

Mary’s youngest son, Declan, who spoke towards the end of the Mass, told the congregation how his mother loved the outdoors, caring for animals and finding beauty in the peace of nature: “Time we spent side by side in the garden was not just about growing plants, it was also about growing memories. Despite the challenges she endured, she remained strong. Her ability to face each day with determination and a loving heart was truly inspiring and a source of comfort to us all.

“She was our source of strength, kindness and support. She taught us the importance of kindness and the power of resilience. Her spirit lives on in the lessons she taught us, the memories we cherish and the love that continues to surround us. She will always be there. You were deeply loved and will never be forgotten,” he said to warm applause.

Reposing was at St Colman’s Funeral Home, Claremorris, with removal to Crossboyne Church. Interment took place in the local cemetery following the concelebrated Requiem Mass. Friends and neighbours formed a guard of honour in Crossboyne as a special tribute to Mary and the special place she and her family held in the local community.

Mary, who was predeceased by her parents John and Bridie McGuinness (nèe McHugh) and her brother Patsy, will be sadly missed by her husband Seamus and their family, James, Fiona, Padraic and Declan, grandchildren Emma, Aiden, Mason and Kai, brothers Noel and Fr Brendan, daughter-in-law Berni, partners Teddie, Lisa and Eugene, sisters-in-law Doreen and Una, brother-in-law Sean, extended family, friends, neighbours and relatives.

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