'Devastating loss to culture of Bruff' as local theatre stalwart is mourned

TRIBUTES are being paid to the late Mary Harvey née Rowe following her passing on August 19 after a prolonged illness.

Maurice O'Sullivan from the Torch Players drama group described the late actor best known for her portrayal of Bridie Clancy in Killinascully as "wonderful, talented, unique and very funny." She graced the boards in numerous Torch productions. Mary first took to the stage with the Fit Ups at the tender age of 14 in the 1960s.

Mr O'Sullivan said Mary had a unique natural talent. "She was one of those extraordinary actors who just did it without having to think too much about it. It was an audacious talent and she possessed a wicked, terrific sense of fun."

With Torch she won Best Actress awards at drama festivals across the country. Her crowning glory was winning Best Actress for her depiction of Beatrice in The Effects of Gamma Rays on Man in the Moon Marigolds at the All Ireland Drama Finals in Athlone and the Dundalk International Festival in 1998. 

Thomas Fitzgerald from Fitzgerald Heritage Centre in Bruff said Mary's death was a devastating loss to the culture of the town. "Beloved by all who knew her and revered by local thespians, Mary stood tall for the quality of her acting."

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He added that she could turn her hand to any role offered to her. "Recognised in America as well as her homeland for her utter brilliance, Mary Rowe's passing marks a black day for us all. No doubt she is treading the boards in heaven entertaining all around her," concluded Mr Fitzgerald.

Actor Chris Rowley paid tribute to Mary, saying she was such a "talented actress" and giving of praise and support to anyone who she worked with. "A true pro and a pleasure to be with, whether on stage or in the green room!"

The late Limerick woman inherited her great performing talents from her mother Sadie who was a stalwart of The Bruff Shamrock Players who were the dramatic group in Bruff throughout the 1930s and 1940s.

Mary is survived by her partner Frank, sister Carmel, nephews Pat and John Paul, niece Michelle, grandnephew Ryan, extended family, neighbours, drama community and her many friends.

Mary will repose in McMahon's Funeral Home, Newmarket-on-Fergus tomorrow (Thursday) from 5.30pm to 7pm followed by removal to Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Funeral Mass on Friday, August 23 at 11.30am followed by burial afterwards in Ss Peter's and Paul's Church ground, Bruff.