Sadness at sudden death of Mary Allen
BALLYBUNION was in a state of shock this week following the sudden and untimely death of popular local artist, Mary Allen, at her home on Wednesday night.
Ms Allen's remains were discovered at her home on Thursday morning and news of her death saddened the town. Only 54-years-old, Ms Allen was widely known throughout North Kerry, her work as an art teacher and her numerous parts in amateur dramatics in the coastal resort endearing her to many.
"It's an awful tragedy that she passed away so young and the whole of Ballybunion is in a state of shock," friend Robert Stack told The Kerryman. "She was a very generous woman who quietly carried out much excellent charity work, in particular with children in need and she was hugely regarded by all in the town," he said.
Born to Tom and Helen Allen in the very centre of the town, Mary Allen is survived by her son Thomas, brother Tom and sister Catherine Ellis.
"She was a hugely talented actress, artist and photographer and her stage skills made for very memorable roles, most recently as the widow in Reilly," Mr Stack added. "She was a wonderful art teacher as well, working with schools and the Active Retirement among other groups."
The shock of Ms Allen's death was heightened by the news of Feale Bar owner Mary O'Hanlon's passing some days later; one of the town's most popular publicans for decades. The remains of Ms O'Hanlon — who was in her seventies — were buried at Kilehenny Cemetery following her Requiem Mass at 11.30am on Monday.
- DÓNAL NOLAN
