Yolie was an unforgettable lady
AN unforgettable Arklow lady was laid to rest recently and is sadly mourned by her family and many friends.
Angela McDonald, née McDonagh, of St Brigid’s Terrace was best known to her loved ones, and throughout Arklow, as Yolie Mac. She passed away in St Colmcille’s Hospital, Loughlinstown following a short illness. Yolie was just a few weeks shy of her 93rd birthday.
Although born in Northern Ireland as Yolanda, ‘Yolie’ came to Arklow as a toddler when she was fostered by local couple Chrissie and Ned McDonagh. She enjoyed a very happy childhood and loved her family dearly – none more than her late younger brother Don, who she idolised.
Yolie took the name Angela on the advice of the nuns ahead of her First Holy Communion, when she was told that she could only used a saint’s name.
At the age of 14, Yolie, like many Arklow people, started work in the Arklow Pottery which would become her lifelong place of employment. She loved the pottery and held many different roles there over the years, including working in the clay section, office and shop. Yolie even stood in as nurse from time to time when needed.
She also enjoyed representing the company at trade shows in venues such as the RDS.
Yolie was married to Harry McDonald, who predeceased her more than 20 years ago. The couple had a daughter Maria and also three grandchildren, Karen, Mark and Conor.
When Yolie retired in 1996 she wasn’t one to rest on her laurels and continued to enjoy a very full and busy life. She loved to visit Lourdes regularly and went on pilgrimage there some 43 times. For years, Yolie travelled as a parish volunteer and would kindly help the infirm and ensure that they were able to make the journey.
It grieved her that on her last visit, while being pushed in her wheelchair by her daughter Maria, that she was the person in need of help.
Maria will honour her mother’s wishes later this year by scattering some of her ashes in Lourdes.
Yolie was a member of many community groups including Inch ICA, the Irish Wheelchair Association, the Mixed Voice Choir, Marian Arts and was a founder member of Arklow Friendship Association. Yolie loved the arts and was a wonderful singer and enjoyed dancing very much.
Until five years ago, she also loved her weekly trip to Greystones and also a game of Bridge in her home with her friends. Bingo was another favourite activity and was a great social outlet.
Yolie loved the outdoors and the countryside and she was never happier than when she was relaxing in her garden feeling the sun on her face. There was and only ever will be one Yolie Mac. Yolie is sadly missed by her daughter Maria, grandchildren Karen, Mark and Conor, son-inlaw Peter, sister-in-law Maureen, niece Melanie and extended family, friends and neighbours.
May she rest in peace.