RIP: Leitrim community remembers expatriate described as ‘a beautiful lady full of fun’

Condolences are being paid following the death of an expatriate from Leitrim who passed away in Oceanside, New York.

Margaret “Gretta” Duignan-McGuire, originally from Dromod/Mohill, passed away on January 7. She spent her early years in Leitrim before she, her husband Terry Joe and their children immigrated to New York in 1989.

Gretta is survived by her beloved husband Terry Joe of 51 years; her children Jennifer, Allison (Vinny) and Terence (Shawna); and her grandchildren Vincent Peter and Finley Grace. She will also be deeply missed by her loving brothers Charlie, Peter, Leo, Tom and Joe, her sisters Liz and twin Marian, as well as her extended family, many relatives and a wide circle of friends.

She is predeceased by her parents Moll and Harry, and her brother Patrick.

Gretta’s death notice on RIP.ie recalls how, after moving to New York, she “thrived in her passions as a hairdresser, frequently shopping at TJ Maxx, attending comedy clubs, adoring her beloved pets and taking Sunday drives with Terry Joe.”

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Tributes have poured in on RIP.ie, with many messages from Leitrim remembering her warmly. “Great memories of Gretta and Marian in Mohill school many years ago. Fun times. May her gentle soul rest in peace,” one condolence read.

Another stated, “Cherished memories of Gretta’s friendship and generosity when she lived in Gortnalamph. May Gretta rest in eternal peace.”

A memorial service for Gretta will take place at Tower’s Funeral Home, 2681 Long Beach Road, Oceanside, NY 11572, on Sunday January 18, from 4pm to 8pm.

Further condolences shared fond memories of her life and talents. “Gretta was such a beautiful lady and full of fun. She was a wonderful singer. She sang with twin sister Marian at a concert in Clonturk Hall when they were about 15 and brought the house down – they were brilliant!” one person recalled.

“Remember many happy times in Dromod many years ago. May her gentle soul rest in peace,” said another.

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