$74,200 raised in memory of the late Lisa Cullen

The management and staff of The Heritage Restaurant and Eileen's in Yonkers, New York would like to thank those who helped raise funds in memory of Lisa Cullen from Drumkeerin which have been donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund.

In a letter to the Leitrim Observer they stated “Thank you to all the dedicated people who worked so tirelessly to raise $74,200 for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund.

“This effort was spearheaded by Austin Friel, who with the help of friends, co-workers and loyal customers organized the Heritage Bar and Restaurant inaugural golf outing to benefit the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund in addition to an all-Ireland 50-50 Raffle, and many great gift baskets.

Pictured are Eithne Bell, Danielle Knox, Amanda Hughes, Vincent McNulty, Colm Bell and Eileen Mannion Collum with Paul Friel and Lisa’s little son, Kayden presenting Eithne and Colm Bell with a cheque for $74,200.

“The Heritage Bar and Restaurant owners Eugene and Eileen Collum along with their great staff were honoured to be a part of this magnificent effort, in memory of our own beloved Lisa Marie Cullen, who sadly passed away in 2021.

“Lisa Marie, was a much loved daughter, sister, fiancée to Paul Friel, mother to Kayden, and friend to so many. Lisa’s family were assisted by the Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund, in the difficult task of organising and bringing Lisa home to County Leitrim where she is laid to rest.

“The Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund was set up to support bereaved families in need of guidance and resources when tragedy strikes abroad.

“The Bell family set up this organization after their beloved son Kevin was struck and killed while crossing the road in Woodlawn, Bronx.”

Lisa Marie Cullen of Yonkers, New York, formerly of Tullycorka, Spencer Harbour, Drumkeerin, passed away on October 10, 2021. She was 30 years of age.

At 21 Lisa’s curiosity and adventurous spirit led her to New York where she settled in Woodlawn.

Her energy, determination and strong work ethic would lead her into the bar and restaurant business.

In November 2017 Lisa received life changing news, she was diagnosed with a brain tumour. She would face the fight of her life.

Throughout it all Lisa never let it change her spirit and she fought bravely with Paul and baby Kayden by her side the whole time.

Lisa is survived by her fiancé Paul Friel, her son Kayden, her parents Fintan and Gabrielle, her brothers John and Tony.