RIP: Mayo native's passing in Kilkenny sparks sadness in both counties

BRIDIE O’Brien, Friars Hill, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, who died recently in Ardkeen Hospital, Waterford, following a short illness, was formerly Connolly from Davros, Hollymount, Mayo.

She was daughter of the late Michael and Mary Delia Connolly.

Where the quiet and tranquil Nore rises in the Devil’s Bit in Tipperary and eases gently through the rich farmlands of south Laois and Kilkenny, crossing the county border between Durrow and Ballyragget, Bridie endeared herself to so many people in the land of the black and amber.

This is hurling country to the core and a monument to the legendary Kilkenny goalie, Ollie Walsh, takes pride of place at Mill Street in the town.

The O'Reilly family from the Bridge Brook Arms, Thomastown, were among those leading the warm tributes to the Mayo woman.

“Bridie was a beautiful person, and was a very warm and friendly lady. She loves nothing better than to spend time with people and having the chats.

“She would often speak of her beloved home county of Mayo where her heart truly belonged. She was a very kind person, and loved the fun.

"May her gentle soul now rest in peace in Heaven with her beloved husband, Billy.”

Local man, Sim Treacy, also captures the essence of Bridie’s place in her adopted county: “Bridie has been part of life in Friarshill for as long as I can remember.

"In recent times I used to meet Bridie as she was having her cigarette and coffee outside the Jerpoint every Friday morning and was always dying for a chat.”

The Hyland family in Shrule were among the Mayo people joining in the tributes: “Bridie's heart was always in Davros and she never forgot the West of Ireland.

"She was an outstanding daughter, and sister to Patrick.”

Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption and was followed by interment in St Mary's New Cemetery, Thomastown.

Bridie, who was predeceased by her husband Billy, her brothers Joe, Séan and Patrick, sister-in-law Ita and nephew John, will be sadly missed by her sisters: Kitty, Freddie, Mary and Teresa, her brothers: Miko and Willie, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, cousins, friends, neighbours and carers.