The death took place of Kate Buckingham (née Lee) Glenastar Lodge, Carrigkerry, on Monday, December 9, peacefully, at UHL. Kate who was born in 1933, suffered from ill health in recent years, and spent time in the local hospitals, and nursing homes. She was well looked after by Edward and family members.

Kate was the eldest of eight in the  family of six girls and two boys to parents William and May and they came from Lees Cross in the parish of Granagh/Ballingarry. Her first cousin was George Lee the RTE Correspondent. She attended Castletown Primary School and boarding school in Colaiste Mhuire in Ennis before moving to Dublin to commence nursing at The Mater Hospital. She spent time in the Regional Hospital Limerick and  qualified as a general nurse and worked a lot in casualty and theatre. She socialised in Ballingarry and Newcastle West and was aged 24 when she took her first alcoholic drink (Babycham) with a friend down in Killarney.

Her nursing career brought her to many countries including England, Croatia, Malaysia,  Dubai and Germany where she met her future husband Edward, a soldier, who was a patient in the military hospital where she worked. Love blossomed and 57 years of married life followed with the past 40 spent in idyllic Glenastar Lodge.  She liked doing the many jobs associated with being a homeowner, and was happy with a paint brush and hedge clippers in her hands.

Kate had a great interest in people and loved to engage to trace their lineage and past family backgrounds. Her trips to Ballybunion were often used to meet and converse with people. She was very positive and outgoing and a real lady being soft spoken and mild mannered. A woman of great faith she was very involved in the church as a volunteer, serving as an Eucharistic Minister and a reader in Saint Mary’s Church, Carrigkerry. She always had a kind word of encouragement for others, and one of her favourite words was dear.

Kate will be long remembered for her fundraising efforts on behalf of the Irish Cancer Society, which has been estimated to have raised  about €250,000. She began her involvement in Daffodil Day in the mid 1980s, after spending time in Saint Luke’s Hospital Dublin. From a small beginning  just selling Daffodils around Newcastle West one day a year she got the local schoolgirls involved and extended it to two fundraising days. She continued fundraising up to a few short years ago, when she handed over to others who continue the good work.

Her remains arrived at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Newcastle West on Wednesday, December 11, for Requiem Mass at 11.30am, which was concelebrated by Fr Michael Noonan, Fr Frank O’Dea and Fr Larry Madden. A large crowd were in attendance to say their goodbyes and to  pay their respects to the family. The readings were from the Book of Wisdom, and Saint Paul’s letter to the Corinthians  and the Bread of Life Gospel. Burial took place afterwards in Castletown Conyers Cemetery. We extend our sympathy to her husband  Edward, children George, James and Mary, six grandchildren, sisters, brother, extended family and many friends. May she rest in Peace
We extend sympathy to Mick Copse, and family, Ballyloughane, Carrigkerry on the death of his sister Nora McCoy, of Gortnagross, Athea, peacefully at University Hospital Kerry, on Friday December 6. She lay in repose at her residence on Monday, December 9 from 5pm to 8 pm. Removal to St. Bartholomew’s Church, Athea on Tuesday morning  for 12 noon Requiem Mass, with burial afterwards in Holy Cross Cemetery. Sympathy also to son Jimmy, daughter-in-law Kathleen, grandchildren Seán, Julie, Sharon, Gemma, and  Anita, great-grandchildren, sisters Mary (Hayes – Shanagolden) and Ellen (Falahee – Newcastle West), brother Seán (Copse – Newcastle West) and extended family members. May she rest in Peace.

The death has taken place of Mary Larkin (née Ward), Clash,  Athea, and late of Coolcappa, peacefully at Limerick University Hospital on Friday, December 13 surrounded by her loving family. Predeceased by her parents Michael and Peg and her mother in law Anne (Larkin). She lay in repose at  Kelly’s Funeral Home  Athea on Sunday  from 5pm to 8pm. Her remains arrived at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Athea on Monday Morning (16th) for Requiem Mass at 12 noon, with burial afterwards in Holy Cross Cemetery, Athea.

We extend our sympathy to  her devoted husband Liam, children James, Margaret and Liam, their partners Rebecca, Donal and Shauna, grandchildren Daniel and Nathan, father-in-law James (Larkin), sisters Peggy (Greaney, Broadford) and Breda (Flynn, Glensharrold, Carrigkerry), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, other relatives, kind neighbours and a large circle of friends. May she rest in Peace.

A celebration of Jaroslaw Chromy’s life was held in Ardagh School field on Saturday, December 14 at 3pm. About 12 members of St Kieran’s Heritage Association turned up in period costume and stood with the Ulfhednar Hird Ireland Vikings in the circle for the SLAV Ceremony (The very First one to take place in Ireland). Some came from as far away as Sligo such was Jarek’s standing in the troop. Many local neighbours from Ardagh turned up as well to give him a good send off. Some of Jarek’s possessions were put on the fire, his Viking Shield being one (Made of timber) and his art creations, and timber work was on display.

After the ceremony  all went to the Community centre for food and refreshments. A toast was offered to Jarek and some songs were sung, and a group photo taken. Ardagh Development Association are to be thanked for the distribution of the tea and food, soup and arrangements. We are lucky to have such a facility in our midst. Ulfhednar Hird Ireland Vikings had plans to use the hall for training as it was a central location and giving Ardagh’s medieval history it is still on their minds to do so. And if it happens all are welcome to train with them.

The following are the Lottery results from Neary’s Bar on Monday, December 9. The numbers drawn were 2,10,12,and 13 and there was no Jackpot winner. Congratulations to the five lucky dip winners who won €40 each Tom Noonan, Ardagh, Kathleen Ryan, Ardagh, Annette Flavin, Carrigkerry, Mossie and Kieran, c/o Moore’s, and Denny Shields, c/o Ned Lynch. Until the jackpot is won two additional prizes of €50 will be awarded each week. Congratulations to this week’s winners: Peter Buston, c/o Reens and Pat O’Connor, Carrigkerry. Next week’s Jackpot will be €20,000 and the draw will be held in Moore’s Bar, Carrigkerry.

Congratulations to Con Mulcahy, Kilcolman who completed the Dublin City Marathon over the October Bank Holiday in aid of Milford Hospice. Thanks to all who contributed the fine total of €3,407.

Congratulations to John Mulvihill and Vinnie Wrenn who were first prize winners at the card game held in Shanagolden Hall on Friday, December 6.

Congratulations to Liam Kennedy from the St Kieran’s club who won an All Ireland Freshers League medal with UCC, defeating UIL. The Limerick GAA Club draw for December was held on Limerick Live 95 Radio during the sports show on Saturday last. St Kieran’s club had no winners.

Saint Kieran’s GAA Club are holding a monster Christmas draw and tickets are currently on sale from local outlets and from members. Tickets cost €2 each and a book of three cost €5. First Prize €300, Second Prize €150, Third Prize Christmas Hamper, Fourth Prize €100 worth of Driving Lessons, Fifth Prize Meat Voucher, plus many more prizes. The draw will be held in Ardagh Hall on Sunday, December 22, at 9pm, and all support will be appreciated.

Congratulations to Paddy O’Shea, Broadford who won €202 in the West Limerick 102fm 50/50 draw, held on Friday, December 13. Tickets cost €2 and they are available from volunteers, in local shops, or from the radio station. All support is very much appreciated. New volunteers to get involved in all aspects of the station are needed at present. The roles available include research and studio work, fundraising and lots more. Contact the station if interested.

The finishing up Céilí night in Monagea will be held in the community hall on Thursday, December 19 at 8-30pm. The finishing up Céilí night in Athea will be held in Con Colbert Hall on Saturday, December 21, at 9pm. All set dancers are welcome at both venues, and good dancing is guaranteed.

On Christmas Eve Mass will be celebrated in Coolcappa, at 6pm, Ardagh 6.30pm, Kilcolman 7.30pm, and Carrigkerry 8.30.pm. On Christmas Day Mass will be celebrated in Kilcolman at 9.30am, Ardagh 10am, Coolcappa, 11am, and Carrigkerry at 11.30am.

The Charity Road Hurling competition will be held on Friday, December 27 from 11am outside  Ardagh Church and follow the usual route by Skehanagh and Cahermoyle and back to the village. All funds raised on the day will be donated to two local charities Milford Hospice Home Care, and the Night Daffodil Nurses (Irish Cancer Society), who do wonderful work in our communities. It is a very enjoyable event and all support will be greatly appreciated

The  annual Christmas Walk along the Great Southern Trail Greenway will take place on Friday, December 27. Assembly is at the car park of the Rathkeale House Hotel, Rathkeale, between 12.30pm and 1.30pm . Bus Éireann services  from Kerry and Limerick stop a few metres from the hotel for those who wish to reduce their carbon footprint. Walkers will be transferred by  Coach House Travel courtesy shuttle coach from the hotel car park to Ardagh from where they will have a 5mile [8km] stroll (a shorter option can also be provided) along the old railway back to the Rathkeale House Hotel which is alongside the Greenway.

There they can enjoy seasonal mince pies, whipped cream and tea/coffee at their leisure. Cyclists, with visibility gear and lights, are also welcome and we suggest that they also meet at the hotel at 12.30 and cycle outwards along the Greenway for approximately one hour or more towards Newcastle West/Barnagh Tunnel and then return in time to enjoy the refreshments. The round trip to the tunnel is close to 30 miles[48km].We recommend  that cyclists also wear a helmet for their own safety. Bike hire will also be available (preferably by prior booking) with [email protected] 0868134061. 

Kilcolman Rovers  are holding a 4k,and 8k family fun/run/walk on Sunday December 29 at 12 noon from Ardagh Community Centre, and all are welcome.

Happy Christmas to all. 

Athea Community Council

Lucky Numbers Draw

17/12/2019

No’s Drawn:

2, 8, 28, 30.  No Winner

Lucky Dips

€20 each:

Con Ahern, Coole East

Colin Mumbray, Knocknagorna

Nicole Fitzgerald, Hillside Drive

Ann Carroll, Templeathea

Sellers Prizes:

Lal Browne  &  Betty Murphy

Entrants to draw for €200 at end of month

Peggy Cleary, Templeathea

Mary & John O’Mahony, Markievicz Park

Next Draw: 07/01/2020 at the  Top of the Town

Jackpot: €11,200

€200 Winner: Zac Upton, Rathcahill

Happy Christmas to all our sellers & supporters

and best wishes for the  New Year.

Dominic West, Ann Shanahan, Peg Prendeville

Athea Craft Group Rescheduled  Christmas Open Day

Athea Craft Group Christmas Open Day Saturday 14th December 11am – 4pm at the Carnegie Library In Athea. A variety of crafts will be on display and available to purchase. A raffle for some lovely prizes will also take place on the day. Complimentary tea/coffee. Everyone Welcome

Credit Union AGM

Athea Credit Union AGM will be held on this Sunday, December 15th at 11.30am after mass. All are welcome to attend.

Athea Gun Club Fundraiser Dance 2019

At the Top of the Town on Sunday, December 29th. Music by O.C. Trio

1st. Prize – 43″ Panasonic 4k Smart TV. 2nd Prize – €200 Hamper. 3rd Prize – €100 euro hamper

Lines on sale at the usual outlets.

Garda Sergeant Tom Barrett Honoured

Retired Garda Sergeant Tom Barrett of Lower Dirreen is one of 17 Gardaí from the Limerick Division who will feature on a wall of honour, recently unveiled at Henry St. Garda Station. All 17 Gardaí received Scott Medals for exceptional bravery. Tom received his medal in 1995 while stationed at Roxboro Station. He disarmed a man who was carrying a loaded firearm. Ex-Sgt. Barrett was on his own at the time.

Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche paid tribute to each of the recipients during the unveiling ceremony.

Athea Parish Journal

Will be on the shelves this week at the usual outlets, Collins’ Shop, Athea, Moloney’s, Carrigkerry, Knockdown Shop, Holly’s, Moyvane & Ann Lyons’ Shop, Abbeyfeale.

That Time of Year

By Domhnall de Barra

Coming up to Christmas, my mind always wanders back to days of yore when the world was indeed a different place. There are huge changes since those days, most of them for the better, but there are also some good things that have been lost along the way. The biggest difference between the middle of the last century and today  is how more well off we are now. Today, thank God, there is little or no poverty in our area. Back then it was an entirely different story. The years after the 2nd world war were lean ones indeed with no employment and a real scarcity of money. Families were usually big; 9 or 10 children being the norm but some were much bigger. Small farms were dotted around the parish, most of them with 10 or 12 cows to milk, and they barely survived. The farm was handed on to the oldest son so all the other siblings had to find work. The only employment available was to work for bigger farmers, most of whom lived on the good lands down the County Limerick, or working for shopkeepers and publicans in the village or nearby towns.

There was only so much of this to go around so, as soon as they were old enough, the boys and girls from Athea emigrated to England or America to find a better life for themselves. There was many a tear shed at the railway station in Abbeyfeale or Ardagh as young people, who had never seen the outside world, embarked on the long trip to some foreign city, not knowing what they were facing. There was hardly a house in the parish that was not affected by this mass exodus of our finest young people. It was however the saving of this country because those who found work with McAlpine, Murphy, and the likes sent home a few pounds every so often to help the family left behind. The postman was a welcome visitor bearing the letter with the English or American stamp. People would also send home parcels, especially coming up to Christmas. You didn’t have much growing up in that era. You had two sets of clothes, one for weekdays and one for Sunday, well, when I say Sunday I suppose I really mean for going to Mass because as soon as you got home the clothes were taken off in case they got dirty!.  The ordinary clothes were often hand-me-downs from older brothers and sisters and might have been repaired and altered many times. The mothers, in those days, were deft with sewing, darning and mending. When a shirt collar got frayed it would be “turned” and it looked like a new garment. The socks were made of thick wool and worn all the week. Naturally they got damp in the wellingtons, our main type of footwear, so we hung them over the fire at night . In the morning they would be stiff as pokers and we often had to beat them off the floor or a nearby chair to make them pliable enough to put on. There was no such thing as an underpants in those times or indeed belts for the trousers. A pair of braces did the trick and kept the trousers from falling down. That is why the parcel from abroad was so welcome. The new clothes they contained  transported us into a different world and we felt like kings in our modern outfits.

The food was also simple but wholesome. Bacon and cabbage or turnips was the norm at dinner but sometimes we would make do with a couple of fried eggs and mashed potatoes or “pandy” as we used to call it. The eggs were from our own hens and had a taste you will not find today. Sausages were a rare treat and of course we looked forward to a bit of pork steak and puddings when a neighbour killed a pig.

Education was basic national school level, except for the few who could afford the fees for secondary school so, all too soon, childhood was over and the next group took to the emigration trail. There was great excitement at this time of the year because most of those who emigrated, especially to England, came home for Christmas. Their arrival at the station was eagerly awaited on the last few days before the festive season and we were in awe of their demeanour as they stepped down from the train dressed in the most modern of clothes with their hair in the latest fashion. There was much rejoicing and a nearby hostelry was visited where the porter flowed freely as those who came home were very generous to those who had stayed behind and had no disposable income. It was now time for a change of diet because nothing was too good for the visitors and we gorged ourselves on fresh meat from the butchers and “town bread”.

Midnight Mass was a special occasion with the church full of people all wishing each other a happy Christmas. The crib was a great attraction for the children who  looked in awe at the baby Jesus in the manger. There was a solemnity about it and a sense of celebration at the same time. The Christmas dinner was a real feast with a goose or a turkey  filling the middle of the table surrounded by spuds, Brussels sprouts and other vegetables. Jelly and custard followed and it was like manna from heaven!  I don’t think many of today’s youngsters will be as excited as we were or cherish every moment in the company of family members who would soon take the lonesome trip back across the seas.  Even though, today, we have more than enough I would give anything to go back to that  time when I was a boy and experience the magic once more.