Marie was a caring lady for whom family was everything
THE community of Taghmon lost a true lady recently following the death of Marie Cullen (née Byrne) of Aughfad following a short battle with illness. Deeply saddened by her loss, the local community paid their respects in the only way they could in these turbulent times, lining the streets at a distance as she made one final pass through the village before being laid to rest in the local cemetery.
Born on June 4, 1955, Marie was the fourth child born to parents Eddie and Eileen Byrne. She looked back fondly on her childhood, growing up alongside her siblings Liam, Betty, Pat and Eamonn at 9 Stream Street and they always had tales to recall whenever they got together. From the very start, family meant everything to Marie. As the years went on, she was always at her happiest when surrounded by family. Marie married her beloved husband Mylie on March 3, 1973. A formidable pair, they set about building their lives together welcoming five children - Helen, Kay, Marie, M.J. and Jane. Being a mother was something that Marie adored and she was very proud of all of her children. With the passing of time, the arrival of grandchildren gave a new lease of life and opened up her heart even further. She adored all of her grandchildren - the late Aoife, Niamh, Emma, Libby, Harvey, Jack, Cathal, Sarah Jane, Claudia, Charlie, Cian and Annie - and was the very picture of the doting grandmother, always asking after them and keen to hear what they were up to.
When you added in sons-inlaw Kieran, Ray and Dave and daughter-in-law Klementyna as well, it made for a busy home at Aughfad, but Marie wouldn’t have had it any other way. Always game for a laugh and a joke, Marie also had a really caring nature which was felt by all who knew her. She was a carer in both her personal and working life, a role which she took to great lengths.
A woman of great style, Marie loved her fashion. This was an interest that grew over countless Saturday shopping trips with her neighbour and best friend of 43 years Eileen Banville. From young to old, all could be catered for from Marie’s Boutique! A very sociable person, she loved nothing more than to meet with people for a chat over a cup of tea. She was a dedicated member of the Wednesday Women’s Group in the FRC in Taghmon, where she made many good friends. She really looked forward to their weekly meetings, countless chats and many outings.
Throughout her illness, Marie bore her lot with a wonderful dignity and an unshakeable positive outlook, seeking to spend as much time as possible with those she loved. Her passing comes as a huge blow for her loving family and many friends, but the memories left will last a lifetime. Mylie and the rest of Marie’s family were blown away by the love and support shown to them at such a difficult time and would like to particularly thank the nurses and doctors who cared for her. Her months mind occurs on Thursday and family and friends are asked to keep Marie in their prayers.