By Kathleen Mullane

It was with great sadness this week when news filtered through, of the sudden and so unexpected death of Seán Moran, son of Sheila and Tommy (Dublin) and Tommy Snr being formerly of Knocknagorna, Athea and owner of the well known ‘Red Cow Inn’ in Dublin. Sean was in his early thirties and passed away while holidaying in Spain. Many travelled from Athea and the surrounding areas to Dublin on Sunday to pay their last respects. Sincere sympathy is extended to Sheila & Tommy and Sean’s brothers Tommy Jnr, Michael, Stephen and Brendan and sisters Karen and Tracey. ‘May the light of heaven be his’.

Also this past week the death occurred of Mike Parkes so suddenly also at the family home in Ballybunion to where he had retired with his good wife Amina. Mike’s untimely death was also a shock to the whole community. Many came to pay their last respects at Kelly’s funeral parlour on Saturday evening last. Cremation took place in Cork on Monday. Sincere sympathy is extended to his wife Amina, daughter Tricia, sons Andrew, David and George. ‘May he rest in peace’.

To quote from a neighbor of theirs – “they were such good neighbours”.

So many thanks to all who gave so generously to the Church gate collection last weekend in aid of Epilepsy. It was very much appreciated.

First Holy Communion takes place here in Athea in 2018, a bit earlier than usual on April 28th and Confirmation for 5th and 6th classes on Tuesday, May 15th at 1.30pm – dates to be put in your diaries.

The Athea Horse and Pony Races were postponed this past weekend and will take place on Saturday next, October 7th on Helen and Mike O’Keeffe’s land in Glenagore. Everyone is welcome for a fun day out.

Having been involved in the Athea Parish Journal for a good number of years, when it first went into production – I realize it’s so important and helpful to Domhnall and Lillian to have all the information, articles, photos and club news in as early as possible as there is o much work involved in putting it all together in time for Christmas and posting overseas to our exiles. So if you have any photos, especially old ones, you might hand them in – all will be kept safe for you. And the clubs are especially asked to put together all their bits and pieces A.S.A.P. 

Sincere thanks to Ta Mullane for his very generous donation towards the Crumlin fun following the race from Knockdown last week.

Thought for the Week:- “The only way to have a friend is to be one”