THE LATE MARION DONNELLY, EMYVALE

People were stunned, shocked and saddened when they heard of the death of Marion Donnelly, Emyvale – not only the people of North Monaghan but from the entire county and indeed all over Ireland and many countries throughout the world. Marion, through her work and her interests, became a well-known lady and was held in great esteem by all who knew her. Her involvement in and contribution to the GAA at local, county and national level has been enormous and her employment in Silverhill Duckling brought her into contact with people throughout the world.

She will be sadly missed by all. Marion was born in Mullan Village and she had a sister and two brothers – Nuala, Francis, (who passed away in 2017), and Terence. Marion’s father, Benny Connolly from Cornacrieve, Emyvale, died in May 1984 R.I.P. He was a very well-known footballer, who played for Truagh, Emyvale, Scotstown and maybe others from time to time. He was a great fielder, intelligent reader of the game and very accurate with either foot, as he played in the forward line. He played for the County team and was a member of the 1956 All-Ireland winning Junior team. He was a close friend of the Moyna twins, Tommy and Mackie. In 1963 he sustained a seriously broken leg while playing football, and this ended his playing career but he continued his involvement with Gaelic football as a referee. Obviously he passed on the love of the game to Marion.

Her mother, Kathleen, nee Kelly from Figullar, passed away in March 2020, RIP. Killyrean NS was the closest school for Mullan and Marion attended there. The teachers were Master Woods and Mary McQuaid and Marion had the highest praise for both teachers, as they made school a very enjoyable experience and took a great interest in their pupils. From there she graduated to Monaghan Vocational School, travelling….