RIP: Tributes paid to well-respected Mayo woman upon passing

THE news of the passing of Bernie Sheridan, Hollymount, Mayo, was received with sadness around the local community and by her many friends throughout the region.

She was formerly Vahey from Farmhill, Claremorris, and died peacefully in the care of the staff at Galway Hospital.

Bernie spent much of her working life in Baxter (formerly Travenol) in Castlebar where she was held in
such high esteem.

She was a firm favourite and a trusted friend to so many of her colleagues and was prominent in promoting the wellbeing of interests of the staff over many years.

She grew up in the close-knit community of Farmhill, a place that always remained so close to her heart.

Along with others from the area, she made the long daily walk to Taugheen NS from the low crossroads at a time when walking to school was such a normal part of life.

Bernie got to know all the homes and families along the way and had an easy and gentle rapport with all of them.

She married Tom Sheridan and they raised a family of three daughters. Their home beside the football
pitch in Hollymount has always been a warm and welcoming home for so many all through the years.

Many of her colleagues from her days in Travenol were among those joining in the lovely tributes to
Bernie.

Mary Kelly from Bohola said she had the privilege of working alongside Bernie in Baxter for many years.

“She was an exceptional shop steward and an incredible person. Her unwavering commitment to fairness made our workplace a better environment for all.”

Imelda Cosgrove said she had great memories of their school days and working in Travenol and sharing a flat together.

Paul and Anne Hennelly, Claremorris, expressed their sadness on hearing the news of the passing of
Bernie.

“We always enjoyed meeting you and having the chat. You were gifted with laughter and a great
story teller.”

Mary O Connell, Convent Road, Claremorris, recalled fond memories of Mount St Michael’s and Bernie’s wit and humour.

Reposing was at St. Colman’s Funeral Home, Claremorris, an interment took place in Roundfort cemetery following the funeral Mass celebrated by Fr Mike Murphy, PP.

Bernie, who was predeceased by her parents Bridie and Joe Vahey, will be sadly missed by her husband Tom, daughters Vanessa, Melissa and Bernadette, son-in-law Sean, her sisters Marion, Teresa and Anne, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.