RIP: Kilkenny family in mourning at funerals of two brothers over three days
From the Castlecomer Notes inside this week's Kilkenny People
The past week has been a difficult and sad time for the O’Neill family, Maryville with the funerals of two brothers Michael and Teddy taking place just three days apart.
On Friday, a funeral service was held for Michael in London. Then, on Monday, the family gathered in mourning again this time for the funeral of Teddy who was the elder of the two.
Teddy O’Neill, late of Bowden’s Court and formerly of Maryville, and London, died at Saint James’s Hospital, Dublin.
His life of over seven decades was similar to many of his generation as, after a short stint in Deerpark, he emigrated to England in search of work.
He never forgot his roots in Maryville and was a regular visitor to his birthplace. He was so happy to return home and worked in Comer International Textile Mills for several years before settling down in Bowden’s Court.
A trojan worker, he worked day and night; on a regular basis he served bricklayers and plasterers after the night shift in the mills.
Pleasant and affable, he enjoyed the simple things of life - a game of darts or pool and following Kilkenny in the hurling.
Teddy was so content when out and about on his mobile four wheeled rollator, meeting and greeting.
He was so kind and helpful to his neighbours in Bowden’s Court. Of late he did not enjoy the best of health, but he always kept the best side out in his own cheerful manner.
Burial was in the Parish Cemetery after Requiem Mass which was celebrated in the Church of the Immaculate Conception by Fr Ian Doyle, Associate Priest, Castlecomer.
Predeceased by his parents Michael (Sonny) and Kathleen O’Neill, brother Michael, son Edward and daughter Margaret. Teddy is survived by his daughters Amanda and Elizabeth (London) and their partners Christopher and Jonathan; grandchildren Hannah, Ryan, Daniel, Luke and Casey; great-grandchildren; brothers Liam and Sean; sister-in-law Eileen and nieces Danielle, Debbie and Donna; extended family, cousins and a wide circle of friends.