A Slieve Bloom woman who loved and promoted her area

MANY were saddened during the Autumn to hear of the passing of Mary Ann Lynch, a longstanding and hardworking member of the Slieve Bloom Association.
Mary was born and raised at the Ridge of Capard, in the Slieve Bloom Mountains, a range which Mary felt a deep affinity with throughout the course of her life.
She loved every bit of information she could find about the Slieve Blooms and was known for possessing an impressive knowledge of the range. She greatly enjoyed talking about the history and the heritage of the region.
Mary and her husband Daniel joined the Slieve Bloom Association 40 years ago.
She was Secretary of the Association for nine years and also spent many years as the association's PRO.
She worked tirelessly to bring attention to the beauty and the importance of the Slieve Blooms. She worked with equally dedicated and enthusiastic members in the SBA in promoting and developing the region.
Along with the committee she worked on many projects, including The Giant's Grave, The May Bush, Ard Eireann Festival, Imbolc, as well as the erecting of seating and information boards at various locations in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. They also erected plaques to commemorate past members of the Association.
The Slieve Bloom Association won many awards throughout the years, and Mary won many awards for her voluntary work with the club.
She helped organise the SBA's 40th celebration in 2013.
Mary worked tirelessly and passionately until, a few years ago, due to ill health, she had to take a step away. She continued to be a member of the Association until her passing.
She passed away on September 30th last. She was predeceased by her brother Paddy, brother-in-law Larry Lynch, sister in law Maureen Clear. She was the dear mother of Kathleen and Orla. She was deeply regretted by her husband, daughters, sons-in-law John & Gene, grandchildren Lexi, Aoife, Elva, Síomha, Cloda & Seán, brother Mick Clear, nephews Micheal, Pauric & Noel Clear, family relatives, neighbours and her many friends.
Mary's funeral service took place in St. Brigid's Church, Rosenallis and she was buried afterwards in St.Brigid's Cemetery, Rosenallis.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam dílis.