‘Joan was vibrant, fun-loving and a woman of amazing strength’

JOAN Brosnan was born on the 24th of July 1944 at her home in Maum Shancashel, Glencar to Mary Coffey (nee Connor) of Glencar and Jeremiah Coffey of Keel Kilgobnet.

She had three brothers, Michael, Johnny, Jerry and two sisters Kitty and her twin Mary. Joan was predeceased by her brothers Jerry and Johnny.

On the 16th of June 1965 Joan married the love of her life Florrie in St Stephens Church, Glencar. They set up home on the family farm in Shanara where they raised nine children Mary, Eileen, Julie, Danny, Thomas, Jeremiah, Florry Martin, Catriona and Joan Ann.

Joan was a loving wife and an amazing mother who took great pride in everything her children achieved. She had 19 grandchildren whom she adored and enjoyed spending time with. She enjoyed watching them grow and loved to hear all the stories going on in their lives.

She had a fantastic balance in life: hard work on the farm was blended effortlessly with the joy of the chores in her garden which she was very proud of.

The troubles in life were offset with the joy of dancing and with love of her family. Though busy with family life Joan and Florrrie were well known on the dance floors of Killorglin and Beaufort, Florrie dressed well in a suit and tie, Joan glamorous as ever – both took great pride in their appearance.

Joan was an extraordinary neighbour and friend who was always there for people with an open mind and a renowned hospitality, there was always a warm welcome for anyone who visited her home in Shanara. Joan loved to chat but she was also blessed with the ability to listen to peoples’ problems without judging and without feeling the need to offer solutions.

Joan was a very positive lady who dealt with challenges in her life with great determination.

She always looked at the positives in everything and as she would say herself “No matter what happens in life you just have to get on with it”.

She was a woman of amazing strength. Such a vibrant and fun-loving person, she was always more concerned for others while minimizing her own struggle. She lived her life to the fullest and on her terms.

Joan was called to her eternal rest on Tuesday 4th October following a short illness. Joan was laid to rest beside Florrie in the family grave in Churchtown.

The family wish to thank all the Doctors and Nurses who cared for Joan and all our friends and neighbours who were of tremendous support to us during this difficult time. God bless you Joan, May you Rest in Peace, you will be forever in our hearts .

Joan Brosnan