By Kathleen Mullane
‘He died as he lived – everyone’s friend’
Well Mikey Byrne was laid to rest on Saturday in Holy Cross Cemetery following his untimely passing last week. And “what a send-off he got”. Many paid their final respects at Kelly’s funeral parlour on Friday evening. Requiem Mass on Saturday was concelebrated by Canon Tony Mullins and Fr. Duggan and what a lovely celebration of Mikey’s “humble” yet ‘joyous’ life. Margaret Carroll’s singing and choice of such relevant songs, made the ceremony very ‘emotional’ to say the least – not only for his sister, brother in law, niece and nephew who had travelled from England, but for all Mikey’s friends and workmates and all those who had befriended Mikey since he made Athea his home. Domhnall de Barra gave the congregation an insight into Mikey’s life – and many of his friends and co-workers at The Gables did the Prayers of the Faithful as well as forming a guard of honour. Mikey was laid to rest in Holy Cross. ‘May his gentle soul rest in peace’.
What can be got out of Mikey’s leaving the Athea Community is – that Athea people stick together – help out – make “blow-ins” feel welcome and are there in time of need – “That’s what Life is all about” watching out for each other, a real “Community”.
The death has also occurred of Nora McAuliffe, Lower Athea. Nora was a lovely, gentle woman – a real motherly type who had lived well into her 90s. Many came to Kelly’s funeral parlour on Saturday evening where she reposed, sympathising with her family and a large circle of relations. Requiem Mass on Sunday was followed by burial at Holy Cross. Sincere sympathy to her family and many relatives and friends. May she rest in peace.
Those who took up the collection over the weekend in aid of the St. Vincent de Paul Society thank sincerely all who gave so generously to the cause. The money raised will help the needy and sometimes nowadays the ‘middle-income’ people are those that are less well off, especially with kids in Creches and Colleges. The V. de Paul are there to help out.
The A.G.M. Of Athea GAA will be held on next Sunday night, December 9th at 8pm at the Clubhouse. You are reminded that “You must be a club member” to avail of being having your name in the draw for match tickets – and no doubt and hopefully Limerick might get there again this year, so don’t forget to pay your membership or you may be disappointed at (match ticket) draw time. Everyone is welcome to air your views, give ideas and now with Páirc na nGael being one of the best pitches around and almost €250,000 having gone into lighting, running and walking track – we must support our Club.