'One life lived, many lives touched': Marie Heavey's life celebrated in Monasterevin

THE LIFE of much-loved Monasterevin woman Marie Heavey was celebrated at her funeral on Saturday, following her death after a road collision on Monday 10 August.

Marie, née Kaye, of Cowpasture, Monasterevin, was remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother and friend whose commitment to her local community touched countless lives.

Her funeral mass took place at St Peter and Paul's Church in Monasterevin before her burial at St Evin's Cemetery. The service was attended by family, friends, neighbours and members of the many community organisations with which Marie had been involved.

At the beginning of the mass, grandchildren of the deceased brought up gifts to the altar, symbolising different sides of Marie’s spirit before a heartfelt tribute was given by her son James Heavey.

James spoke of his mother as a woman who was always involved in the community and who loved her bingo, and was a devoted member of the community.

But, above all he said family was at the centre of Marie's life, with her grandchildren holding a particularly special place in her heart.

“She was always there for them, day or night,” he said, describing his mother as honest, caring and never afraid to give her opinion.

A second tribute was given by her brother Brian Kaye, and highlighted the extraordinary contribution Marie made to life in Monasterevin.

The tribute described Marie as a proud local woman who was born and bred in the area and one of nine children. 

She began her working life minding children before spending many years in the knitwear factory, and Hassetts shop, later returning to childminding and volunteering with local organisations.

Her love of socialising was also recalled, with the speaker saying that wherever there was a party, Marie was there.

Marie had a particular affection for her parish church. The tribute recalled her relationship with Fr Liam Merrigan and Fr O'Sullivan, as well as memories of cycling to Mass with her family.

“She just had the feel-good factor,” Brian said, recalling the many messages posted on social media and RIP.ie following Marie's death.

One message quoted during the service was: “One life lived, many lives touched.” 

Fr Merrigan, also paid tribute to Marie's community spirit during the Mass, recalling her as a faithful parishioner and friend.

“She was a great community person,” Father Liam said, describing Marie's life as one devoted to helping others.

Marie's family had previously expressed their gratitude to the emergency services and staff at the Mater Hospital for the exceptional care shown to Marie and her family after the fatal accident which took place close to Finlay's Filling Station on the R414 Rathangan Road on the morning of Monday 10 August.

Her family said she would be “never forgotten”, living on through her children, grandchildren, friends and the many people whose lives she touched.

May her gentle soul rest in peace.