A Limerick lady to her fingertips: ‘Kay will be forever in our hearts and minds’

THE SUDDEN passing of Kay O’Dowd has left an immeasurable hole in the lives of her family and friends, and in the Community Games, Community Council, Kildimo- Pallaskenry GAA, Pallaskenry Senior Citizens, Salesian College Community, and us here in the Limerick Leader.

Kay was our long-serving and valued Pallaskenry county notes correspondent.

Kildimo-Pallaskenry GAA Club, in a tribute on social media, said perhaps one of the clearest examples of Kay’s dedication was her continued support of their club lotto, selling tickets right up to the week of her passing.

“This was typical of Kay, always willing to help, always thinking of the club and never looking for recognition for all that she did,” they wrote.

Similarly, Kay penned her notes for the Leader the week before she went to her eternal reward on October 17.

She will be sadly missed by her loving husband Gerry, children Trish, Gerard, Maria, Agnes and John, grandchildren, siblings, extended family and a very large circle of friends and neighbours.

Her death notice reads “Kay will be remembered by so many people” and “Kay will be forever in our hearts and minds”.

There are dozens upon dozens of touching tributes on rip.ie One in particular captures the essence of Kay.

“Kay gave me and others from Pallaskenry so many opportunities through GAA and Community Games to find the widest range of past times to enjoy and participate in.

"In the space of three or four days you could meet Kay ten times, from the school canteen, to a quiz practice, to an athletics practice, to setting up draughts and on the sidelines of a pitch.

“Looking back at my best memories as a child growing up in Pallas, Kay O’Dowd facilitated so much of it, even letting you off the odd euro for a last minute chicken fillet roll in the canteen. Rest in peace Kay, thank you for everything.”

In Kildimo-Pallaskenry GAA’s tribute, they described Kay as one of those special people who helped build and sustain a club over many years.

"Her contribution to Pallaskenry GAA and, subsequently, Kildimo Pallaskenry GAA has been immense. We are deeply grateful for everything she gave to our club and community.

"Her kindness, dedication and friendship will never be forgotten, and she will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and working alongside her.”

Kildimo-Pallaskenry Community Games, in a social media post, wrote: “For three decades she gave so generously of her time, energy and dedication helping to create opportunities for children to participate, develop their talents, build friendships and make memories that would last a lifetime.”

Kay was laid to rest in Kilcornan Cemetery on Thursday, October 22 following funeral Mass in St Mary’s Church, Pallaskenry.

May she rest in peace.