The craic was 90 for Mary’s birthday

Although the Kilbrean woman wont turn 90 until next month the celebration was brought forward to accommodate the those who travelled from all over the world for the occasion.

But it was worth it as she was surrounded by all her 17 children, 11 sons and six daughters to share her birthday celebrations: Denis, Killarney; Marion Kervick, Canada; Kathleen O Reilly, New York; Michael, London; Padraig, New York; Sean, London; Philip, Louisiana; Donal, London; Peter, Killarney; David, Sydney; Brendan, Killarney; Anthony, London; Anne Holland, Killarney; Caroline Hampton, New York; Desmond, Killarney; Evelyn Murphy, Killarney; and Geraldine O Sullivan, Killarney.

She also has 30 Grandchildren and two Great Grand Children, Kieran and Caragh Florence from Canada. There were four generations present and it was the first time she had met her all grandchildren.

“Her birthday isn't till August 18 but was celebrated a month earlier to accommodate all the travelling party. None of them wanted to miss this special day. The last time they were all together was unfortunately at their father's funeral, John Michael almost 13 years ago,” said her daughter Anne Holland.

“The celebrations started with a barbeque last Thursday at Sean, her son's house in Kilbrean.

“This was for family, friends and neighbours to enjoy the celebrations with the birthday girl. Her nephew Fr. Martin Spillane gave her a special blessing for health and happiness. Prize chef, Gerry O Reilly was on duty at the grill. There was also a surprise party for members of the family who turned 60 during the year, twins, Philip and Donal and Sister in law Debbie. Highlight of the night was a video of memories compiled by her daughter Anne.

Friday night, the immediate family, along with Mary went to Mary's favourite restaurant, Cronin's.

“Saturday was the big day when all Mary wanted for her birthday was a bus trip to Dingle to see the sights. Even the rain couldn't dampen the spirits of the trip.

Seamus Healy, photographer took the precious photos of the family before they headed on Dero's bus to Dingle.

“Mary was joined by her sister Anne Healy, 92, and her brother John Joe Healy, 86 also. First stop, Inch beach for a mini stop. Then on to Slea Head to see the beautiful scenery along the Atlantic Way. Ceann Sibeal, Golf Club was the venue for the delicious lunch. Next stop was Foley's outside Inch to watch the All Ireland semi final before heading back to Killarney. The weekend ended with more celebrations when Kerry beat Derry to reach the All Ireland final.”

Mary,nee Healy, was born and raised in Kilbrean and built a house on the family land just a stone's throw from the family home.

A Killarney woman through and through she loves the outdoors, Rambling Houses, plays and musicals. Her other hobbies are knitting and word search puzzles.

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