By Kathleen Mullane

Congrats to Julie Gleeson who recently celebrated her ‘50th’ birthday along with family, relations and friends at Brown Joe’s Bar. A very enjoyable night was had by everyone. Best wishes are extended to Julie

The death took place last week of Mary Collins, Lower Road, Athea. Mary had been pre-deceased by her husband J.P (who both had run Collins’ Shop here in Athea) which is now run by their grandson Paul. Mary had reached the great age of 87 and passed away at her home surrounded by family and friends. Many came to pay their final respects at Kelly’s funeral parlour on Thursday evening. Requiem Mass on Friday was concelebrated  by Fr. Duggan and her good friend Fr. Madden. Mary had been a founder member of Athea St. Vincent de Paul and was 40 years a member doing great work. A guard of honour of the St. Vincent de Paul was present as the funeral left the church for burial in Holy Cross Cemetery. Sincere sympathy to her son Pius, grandchildren Paul, Jamie, Philip and Tom, relations and many good friends. May she rest in peace.

Envelopes are now available at all the Church doors for the forthcoming Sacristan’s Collection for Carol which will take place on 2nd and 3rd of February. Time and effort goes into preparing the altar for mass, funerals, weddings etc – so please show your appreciation for Carol’s work.

Congrats to Sarah & Martin Chawke on the birth of their new baby they are naming Robbie, a little brother for Darcy. We send congratulations also to the proud grandparents Kathleen & Gerry Griffin and Marion & Dick Chawke.

The wedding took place on Friday last of Paula McCarthy (daughter of Nora and Eugene of Templeathea) to Brian Murphy of Abbeyfeale. The bride was assisted y Sarah McCarthy, Saoirse Fitzgerald and Clodagh Holly McCarthy. The best men were Keith and Thomas Murphy and Eoin McCarthy. The flower girls were Ava and Emma and Cian the pageboy. Fr. Duggan performed the nuptial ceremony. A great day was enjoyed by everyone at The Devon Inn Hotel. Congrats to the newly weds and wishing them all the very best for the future.

Well Athea Drama Group are on the last couple of weeks of rehearsals for their production “The Lonesome West” which will be staged in the Colbert Hall on February 7th, 9th, 10th, 14th, 16th and 17th at 8pm. The play is suitable for over 12’s and should attract large numbers. Booking will be by text with open seating. 

Any last volunteers for the GAA S.D.C fundraiser and with ‘Dancing with the Stars’ on RTE 1 at present – it might get “feet tapping”. It’s not too late to join Cassie’s rehearsal nights Tuesdays & Wednesdays at the Top of the Town.