Monica McDonnell

The untimely death of Monica McDonnell, wife of Pat, of Ellagh, has caused widespread sadness in the Headford area and far beyond. The large crowds to attend the removal and funeral Mass bore testimony to the high esteem in which she was held.

Formerly Monica Mohan from Ballynalty she was very proud of her county and was a keen GAA follower who rarely missed the Sunday Game.  She was laid to rest in Moyne Cemetery in her native Mayo.

Having raised their five children, Anthony, Padraic, Aisling, Breda and Kathleen, Monica took up a post at Boston Scientific where she made many friends, several of whom turned out to bid farewell to their valued colleague and friend.

Monica never complained and bore her illness with great dignity, always caring more for those around her than herself.  She was an outstanding wife, mother, granny, sister, mother-in-law, aunt, sister-in-law, daughter-in-law, friend and neighbour.  Although a private person Monica was very proud of her families achievements and her final wish was realized when she saw her youngest daughter Kathleen graduate with an honours degree in Medicine at NUIG only a few short weeks before she passed away.  Aisling is a nutritional therapist and Breda an accounting technician while Pat, Anthony and Padraic own the hugely successful Mc Donnell Transport company.

Her genuine nature and kindness endeared her to all who knew her.  She loved her grandsons Padraic & Dylan and always had some treats at hand for the children in the neighbourhood when they called. In a poignant farewell to Monica the children in Ellagh formed a candlelight guard of honour as her funeral cortege made its way to St. Mary’s Church Headford.

Many tears were shed following Monicas funeral Mass as her coffin was taken form Headford Church to the strains of “Home to Mayo”.  Family and friends shared their many happy memories of Monica, a lovely lady who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.  May her gentle soul rest in peace.