Margaret Finnerty (nee Gallagher)

Oranmore, and formerly of Killasser, Swinford

A summer blessed by beautiful roses has lost a certain charm.
The death of Margaret Finnerty (née Gallagher), School Road, Carnmore, Oranmore, Co. Galway and formerly of Tulleague, Killasser, Swinford, evoked a sense of immense loss and sorrow.
She died at University College Hospital, Galway, on June 14, after fighting a courageous battle with illness. Her passing, at a relatively young age, touched the hearts of so many people with whom she had developed friendships over the years.

It was a devastating blow, in particular, to those closest to her and she is deeply mourned by her husband Pat, sons Pearse, Aidan and Simon, mother Eyelyn (Killasser), sisters Dervela, Nuala and Deirdre, brothers A.J., Charlie and P.J, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, aunts, uncle, nieces, nephews, relatives and neighbours. She was predeceased by her father Patrick John and sister Gertie Kelly.
A former employee of the Department of Forestry based at Davitt House in Castlebar, she was a very popular and respected staff member.
She resided at Castle Street for many years and enjoyed her long evening walks into the town's scenic countryside. A warm personality, she took part in all of Davitt House's social outings and looked forward to her annual trips to Greece with her close circle of friends.
Margaret emigrated to America in the early 1980s where her stunning good looks swiftly came to the attention of Pat Finnerty, a Galwayman who was working there.
It was not long before they married and returned to Ireland to set up home together in Oranmore, a progressive community which Margaret grew to love.
They had three sons, Pearse, Aidan and Simon, each of whom Margaret was exceptionally proud. Her boys meant the world to her and she showered them with deep affection and warmth.
Her decline into ill health was faced with fortitude, courage and without a single word of complaint. She was happy to be surrounded by her caring family who gave of themselves so unselfishly during the period of her illness.
Margaret never lost hope. It was not in her nature to do so. And when the end came, she departed in the realisation she had lived a happy and fulfilling life,
Her remains were removed from Claregalway Mortuary Chapel to the Church of the Assumption and St. James, Claregalway.
Burial took place in Swinford Cemetery following Requiem Mass for the repose of her gentle soul.