Claremorris bids farewell to cherished centenarian

CHERISHED The late Delia Brennan.


Michael Commins

ONE of Mayo’s most senior residents, Delia Brennan of Ballykinave, Meelickmore, Claremorris, died peacefully at the Ave Marie Nursing Home, Tooreen, last week. She was in her 103rd year and was a cherished member of the local community. Delia was predeceased by her husband Jack and son Patrick.
Delia was born on June 16, 1914 to parents Pat and Mary Ann Gildea of Clogherbeg, Claremorris. She went to Carrasteelaune National School.  In September 1941, she married Jack Brennan.
Back on June 15, 2014, more than 150 people attended Delia’s 100th birthday at the Ave Maria Nursing Home when Tommy and Ann Feeney organised a marquee on the grounds for the special occasion. Fr Eamonn Concannon from Knock celebrated the birthday Mass.
Delia was joined by family and a legion of friends and neighbours for what was a truly memorable day.
The following day (June 16, the actual date of her birthday), she made the trip from the Ave Maria Home to her old home.
She was just about seated in her favourite chair looking out the window on to the roadway when who should arrive but local postman Pat Lynskey clutching the famous President’s Cheque. It was a magic moment as she read aloud the accompanying letter without glasses. “I won’t be able to deny my age after all this!” she said amid much laughter. 
Delia retained many fond memories from back the years and always delighted family and friends with her reflections and sense of humour. She held a special place in the hearts of the local community around the general Meelickmore area and will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Reposing was at the home of her son Michael (Ballykinave) on Thursday evening (with further reposing at Gilligan’s Funeral Home on Friday evening with removal to St Colman’s Church, Claremorris. After Requiem Mass on Saturday afternoon, interment took place in Ballinasmalla Cemetery.
She is sadly missed by her family, Julia Gibbons (USA), John (Milton Keynes), Gerard, Mary McDermott (Williamstown) and Michael, sister Annie Griffin, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandson, relatives, neighbours and many friends.