RIP: Tributes paid as wife of former Mayo Councillor passes away

Mary Carty (née Prendergast), Carramore, Knock, who died recently in the wonderful care of the staff at Mayo Hospice, Castlebar, was a central player in the community of the Knock region over many years.

She was wife of the late Michael Carty, former publican and Mayo County Councillor, who died in September 2022.

Michael was co-opted to Mayo County Council in the aftermath of his brother John’s election to Dail Éireann in 2002 and was elected for Fianna Fail in the Claremorris Electoral Area for a further five year term in 2004.

Mary was very highly regarded by all who knew her around the region.

The manner in which she carried her health issues over a number of years was an inspiration to many and she always maintained a hugely positive attitude along that journey.

Her caring nature was ever to the fore and she had a brilliant rapport with children, excelling in her chosen profession of childcare.

Mary’s outreach touched the lives of so many people and she had an exuberance that was contagious and added merriment and laughter to many occasions.

She spent many years with the Irish Preschool Playgroups Association and served as a tutor with the Mayo Branch.

The acclaimed historian, Noel Morley, Dublin, and formerly of Wingfield, Knock, was among those joining in the warm tributes.

“Mary was a truly beautiful lady, kind and witty, a wonderful conversationalist with a great sense of humour. She put up such a brave fight over all those years.”

Sean and Siobhan Morris spoke fondly of Mary and her role in the local community.

“Mary will be so fondly remembered from her early days caring for us in playschool with such gentle kindness to the many great nights in Carty’s where she brought the same spirit mixed with a sparkle of mischief and fun.

"She was always a lady full of grace, good humour and elegance who bore her illness with dignity and courage.”

Padraig and Mary Forde reflected on how Mary had such a nurturing disposition which endeared her to the many children under her care.

Her neighbour and friend, Janette Hunt, Cloonlee, Knock, said: “You brought so much joy to every child who had the good fortune to attend your preschool. You were a lady to your fingertips.

"You fought a tough battle and deserve your peace now with Michael and so many beautiful people who are lost to us.”

Tommy Moran commented: “Mary fought her illness bravely and her thoughts were always on her family and the grandchildren that brought her so much joy.

"Michael and Mary were an exemplary couple and were particularly popular within the business, social, sporting and community life in Knock and its hinterland.”

Reposing at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock, and interment took place in Knock Cemetery following Mass in the Parish Church.

Mary, who was also predeceased by her parents Maureen and Frank Prendergast and her sister Eileen, will be deeply missed by her daughters Nicola and Lindsay, son Michael, her grandchildren Jack, Mark, Ben, Millie, Michael and Tilly, sister Christine and brothers Nigel and Frankie, sons-in-law John and Damien, daughter-in-law Samantha, sisters-in-law Anne, Joan, Kathleen and Gloria, brother-in-law Johnny, aunt Maureen, uncles Pat and Vincent Prendergast, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.