Death of Tom Power
It really was the end of an era this week when the last of the Power family of Ardeenlone passed away. Tom Power was most certainly a true gentleman who lived his life quietly and peacefully in the company of his siblings. They farmed the family farm and enjoyed keeping up with local happenings by reading the local newspapers and listening to the radio. Tom was predeceased by his siblings. I had the pleasure of visiting the Power home on occasion and I must say it was a wonderful experience. You were made so welcome and before you knew it hours would have passed. They had very interesting stories to tell and were genuinely eager to hear about what was going on in the parish. They had a fantastic faith and were great supporters of our parish church. Tom has left this world but he will never be forgotten. He is now reunited with his family and that should bring great comfort to his family and friends. We hope that he now enjoys the peace and love of Christ. Tom’s funeral mass and burial took place in St. Nicholas Church in Ballyduff. May he rest in gentle peace. We extend our deepest sympathy to all his cousins, relatives and friends.
Death of Joan Hallissey
We extend our deepest sympathy to Eithne Brennan, Adamstown and Carmel Nugent, Matthews Cross on the recent death of their mother. Joan Hallisey (nee Kiely) was born and reared in Stradbally but spent her married life in William Street, Portlaw. She is predeceased by her husband Watt. Joan spent the past few years in the care of the staff at the Mooncoin Residential Care Centre where she passed away in her 103rd year. Joan is survived by her daughters Eithne, Mary and Carmel, son David, sons-in-law Danny, Pat and Paul, daughter-in-law Eleanor, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, her sisters Ita, Kitty and Susan, her nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. .Joan’s funeral mass and burial took place in St. Patrick’s Church Portlaw. May she rest in peace.
Recent Wedding
St. Nicholas’s Church in Ballyduff was the setting recently for a most beautiful wedding. Local lady Danielle Keogh said I do to her Prince Charming Raymond Ryan. This lovely couple have been sweethearts for a number of years and have made a beautiful home for themselves and their family. The two most important guests on the day were of course their beautiful children Erica and Freddie. We wish this happy little family every good wish and hope that their future is full of happiness and love. We know that their families are very proud of them both and that they will always have the support of two fantastic families.
Shop Local
There has been a lot of emphasis lately about shopping local and anyone who knows me will know that I have been a huge advocate of this for many years. Our local shops and businesses have really pulled out the stops for Christmas and have a wonderful selection of gift ideas or gift vouchers. Remember these are the businesses we turn to when we need sponsorship or spot prizes. These businesses also did their very best to keep us supplied and cared for during bad weather and Covid. If you can at all visit these businesses and see what great offers they have. Shopping locally means local jobs and a vibrant thriving community.
Gala Decade
A big congratulations to Damien and Majella Hennessy and all at Gala Kilmeaden who recently celebrated ten years in Kilmeaden. Ten years ago they spotted the great potential here in Kilmeaden and set up their portacabin in the grounds of Glanbia selling petrol and diesel and now operate from their fantastic forecourt on their site. They have expanded the business greatly over the years and are now a very busy spot. Damien and Majella have always been great supporters of the community from sponsoring jerseys to helping out local charity events. They also employ many local people in their premises and also for any building or maintenance work they have. We wish them continued success and thank them for choosing Kilmeaden.