Crib visionary Rena is laid to rest in Killarney

FR Kieran O’Brien recalled how Rena Kennelly, designer of St Mary’s Cathedral Killarney’s acclaimed Christmastime crib for over 50 years, said she “could die happy now” after seeing her vision for a new crib come to fruition only last Christmas.

Rena (89) was laid to rest on Monday at Aghadoe Cemetery following her Funeral Mass at the Cathedral, within the walls of which her name will live on for years to come. She was, herself, a resident of Aghadoe and formerly of Cleeny, Killarney; and Ballymullen, Tralee.

The Mass was presided over by chief celebrant Fr Pádraig Kennelly, who explained to the congregation that he was not related to Rena but was a good friend of hers over many years.

Ahead of the Mass, gifts brought to the Altar included a crib, staple gun, and paint brush, symbolising her artistic talents and commitment, for over 50 years, to the Cathedral’s crib.

Also presented was a Benemerenti Medal, an award given to Rena, by Pope Francis, for her service to the Catholic Church. “Three months ago, we certainly weren’t expecting this,” Fr O’Brien said of Rena’s death. “Three months ago she was present with us here, in Church, full of life, full of energy, at the busiest time of the year. “After the last 13 weeks of debilitating illness, Rena was brave. She finished the race, she kept her faith, and we are happy for her, but it creates such a loss and a great void to her family and, I know, to many, many friends.

“For over 50 years she designed the Cathedral crib. It was a labour of love for her. Days were set aside to construct and decorate the crib, and during those few days, stories were told, memories of former years were recalled. Laughter and fun were part of the crib.

“After many years of coaxing me, she said we need a new crib. She warned me, the old crib is in disrepair. And so, a plan and design were put in place, and after many months of constructing and designing, with the help of Eamon Mulvihill, a new crib was put in place last Christmas.”

She also helped with countless other endeavours at the Cathedral, and her work is proudly displayed elsewhere, too: a painting of St Brendan in Tralee District Hospital; a bust of Archbishop Kevin McNamara in Ardfert; and a painting of the Resurrection, in O’Shea’s Funeral Home.

“We certainly learned from the master, and our task will be to continue the work she has done,” Fr O’Brien said.

Predeceased by her husband and former Kerry footballer, Colm Kennelly, Rena Kennelly née O’Sullivan is survived by daughters, Shirley and Kate; son, Mark; daughter-in-law; sons-in-law; sister, Margaret; brother, Gene; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; nieces; nephews; relatives; and