Death of former Mayo publican and shopkeeper

THE death has occurred of Breege O'Connor, Linenhall Street, and Rathbawn, Castlebar.

A kind-hearted and affable woman, she was a retired publican and shopkeeper, having run a now former licenced premises, grocery and drapery at the corner of Linenhall Street and Rush Street, once known as Catherine Burke's Corner.

The deceased was secretary of the Castlebar International Four Days Walks for over 20 years and retained a strong interest in the annual event throughout her life.

Elaine Devereaux, a director of the walks committee, said Breege was held in the highest regard within the organisation and the hundreds of walkers who came to Castlebar every year from abroad. 

In a tribute, she stated: “We will remember her fondly. She did all the administration work on a typewriter in the kitchen of her home with immense professionalism and patience. She was a great organiser and had a lovely personality. A lovely lady.'

Breege possessed a great love of Castlebar and its people and she will be sadly missed in the county town. It was always a pleasure to meet her on the street when she was out for a walk with her dog.  

Her remains will be reposing at Cuan Chaitriona Nursing Home, Castlebar, on Friday evening at 5.30 p.m. with removal at 7 p.m. to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar.

Burial takes place in the Old Cemetery, Castlebar, on Saturday following Requiem Mass for the repose of her soul at 11 a.m.

Deepest sympathy is extended to her cousins, neighbours and friends. She was predeceased by her sister, Catherine.

May her gentle soul rest in peace