‘Warrior’: Limerick mum-of-five tragically passes away from motor neurone disease
Athea GAA Club organised a guard of honour as her funeral cortège passed through the village this Sunday
THE TRAGIC news that Carol Liston O'Connor has tragically passed away from motor neurone disease (MND) has broken in Limerick this Sunday.
The mother-of-five was diagnosed with the life-limiting condition at only 41-years-old in 2022.
Originally from Athea, Carol has been living in Broadford for the past 15 years with husband Liam and their five young children - Ellie-Mai, Molly, Liam-Óg, Mikie and Paddy.
The school teacher and big Limerick hurling fan was described as a “warrior” for the courage and spirit she showed in the face of MND.
Carol even attended the All-Ireland final in July with Cian Lynch taking the time to present the Liam MacCarthy Cup to the Liston O’Connor family in Croke Park. Carol’s beautiful smile lit up the stadium.
A post on Athea GAA’s Facebook page this Sunday reads: “It is with great sadness that we have heard this morning of the passing of Carol O’Connor Liston who fought bravely with MND over the last number of years.
“A mentor, former player and teammate. Our deepest sympathy to all the Liston and O’Connor families at this difficult time ”
The club invited locals to wear their club colours as Carol’s funeral cortège passed through Athea this Sunday afternoon as she made her way home to Broadford.
Before Carol’s diagnosis she was a very active member of the community. She was a secondary school teacher in Desmond College, Newcastle West, where she was held in the highest regard.
She gave her whole life to working with young people, not just in the classroom but also on the GAA field. Carol held many coaching and official positions in Athea and Dromcollogher Broadford GAA Clubs. She also togged out with Athea ladies football team with aplomb.
The popularity of Carol and the Liston O’Connor family was reflected in the incredible support of a GoFundMe campaign which raised almost €250,000 to support them in their time of need.
No funeral arrangements have been announced at this time.
May she rest in peace.