Remembering Killarney’s little Amy in her Whitebridge Manor locality

THERE were poignant scenes at the late Amy O’Connor’s native Whitebridge Manor on Saturday as a special seat was unveiled in her memory.

Amy lost her battle against cancer in February at the age of just 11, but her influence was keenly felt by all who knew her during her short life. This was as true to Whitebridge Manor as anywhere else, and Denny Murphy of the local residents’ association explained to The Kerryman that a commemoration of some kind to Amy had been discussed at their meetings since her passing.

After discussions with Amy’s family – she is survived by her parents, Brendan and Triona, and brother, Cian – it was decided that a seat was the most appropriate tribute. It was duly unveiled at the weekend by her close friends and fellow Whitebridge Manor residents, Laura Cremins and Emer Talbot.

On the day, Amy’s father, Brendan, gave a few words, as did representatives of the sports clubs in her life: Patrick O’Sullivan for Dr Crokes; Paul Sheehan for St Pauls Basketball Club; Paul Sherry for Killarney Celtic; and Jerry Griffin for Killarney Valley Athletic Club.

“We gathered some funds beforehand, and with thanks to Spellman’s Timber, who sponsored the seat; Padraig D’Arcy for the associated iron works; and Noel O’Leary for the base, we had everything set,” Denny said.

“It was something we had on our minds for a while, and I think it was appropriate that we had two of her best friends, Emer and Laura, to carry out the unveiling.”

Photos by Michelle Cooper Galvin ABOVE: Brendan O’Connor thanking the local residents and friends of the late Amy O’Connor for remembering her and unveiling the Amy O’Connor bench at Whitebridge Manor, Killarney.

LEFT: A plaqueon the bench reads, “Your legacy is not only how you have lived your life, but how those you influenced choos to live theirs.