One of Limerick’s oldest hurling fans passes away in her 102nd year

DAYS before the All-Ireland final, Bridget Harding, aged 101, sang Limerick You’re A Lady in a video that went viral to encourage the hurlers.

Sadly, that true Limerick lady passed away at home in Dromlara, Pallasgreen on Sunday.

As a thank you for her support, Ger O’Connell, kitman and Pallasgreen resident, brought the Liam MacCarthy Cup to her home for a day in September that will live long in the memory. Bridget even donned a Limerick top for the occasion.

Ger said Bridget was held in very high esteem in the community. 

“Not alone for her longevity but for her personality and her gregarious and genial disposition. What’s truly remarkable about her is that she is well-known throughout the wider community and especially through her bingo attendances in Pallasgreen, Cappamore and Oola. She would be accompanied by her daughter Joan and up to lately was there marking her own book with no help,” said Ger.

Bridget will also be sadly missed by her friends and staff in St Michael's Day Care Centre in Cappamore.

Ger said the visit of the cup was a lovely moment for someone who has supported the fortunes of Limerick all their lives.

“Finally, after a 45 year wait she got to see that shiny cup in her home. I’m so glad that she got to see the cup and I was in a position to help out.

“It actually turned out to be a wonderful family reunion and many photos were taken. Not alone has she now left this world but also gone with her is a bit of history and so many memories. Her nephew, Michael Ryan did a fantastic interview with her in the 2016 Grean Magazine. It was the life story of someone who went through all aspects of life - some good, some tough and some bad but she never complained. She was a great woman,” said Ger.  

Bridget was pre-deceased by her husband Patrick and son Seamus. She is sadly missed by her son Patrick; daughters Bernadette, Joan, Marian and Breda; sister Kathleen; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; sons in law; grandchildren; great grandchildren; nephews; nieces; relatives; neighbours and friends.

Reposing at Ryan’s funeral home in Pallasgreen this Wednesday evening at 5pm with removal to Nicker church at 7pm. Requiem Mass on Thursday at 11.30am with burial afterwards in St Columba's Cemetery, Pallasgreen.