Delia Shally,
Coolcun, Garrymore
Delia Shally, Coolcun, Garrymore. THE death took place recently of Delia Shally, Coolcun, Garrymore. She was in her mid-80s and was a popular and esteemed member of the local community. Delia passed away following a relatively short illness.
Formerly Delia Commins, she married Tom Shally and they raised a family of six children on their farm in Coolcun. Tom died back in 1989.
Delia and Tom were people of the land and were members of a generation of Irish people whose lives revolved almost entirely around the farming way of life. They were decent hard-working people who spared no effort in providing the best for their family. Hard work was second nature to them and they came from an unselfish generation who always put the wellbeing of family before everything else.
Delia was no stranger to the fairs and marts and was a good judge of livestock herself. She took an interest in all matters relating to the land and could converse widely on such matters.
She also took an interest in sport and was an avid follower of the Mayo team, taking an interest in their summer championship season each year.
A keen listener to Mid West Radio, Delia had her own special shows that she tuned into faithfully every week, staying with them until closedown at 2am on Wednesday nights. Many were the requests that were played for her down through the years.
She always loved to see the neighbours call around for a chat and Petie Commins and his brother Micheal (RIP) were regular callers to the Shally home. There was always a fond welcome for all visitors, whether family, friends or neighbours. Christmas night was a favourite night for a game of 25 and many were the enjoyable occasions held in the family home during the festive season.
A woman of strong faith, Delia was a regular at Mass in Ballyglass Church down through the years. And when her health began to decline, she always looked forward to the monthly visit by the local priest.
She was a great favourite in the local community and she had a good and encouraging word for everyone. Her gentle disposition endeared her to all and she will be greatly missed by her family and close friends.
Removal took place from Carey’s Funeral Home to Ballyglass Church with burial in the local cemetery following Requiem Mass celebrated by Fr Michael Molloy, PP, Roundfort and Fr JJ Cribbin, PP, Milltown.
Delia is deeply regretted by her sons John, Michael, Noel and Jarlath, daughters Ann O’Connell (Ballyhaunis) and Mary (Tuam), in-laws, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister Teresa Brennan (Rouse, Hollymount), relatives, neighbours and friends.