Mrs Eileen O’Neill

MRS Eileen O’Neill, of Roscuan, Saul Road, Downpatrick, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2016, at King’s Castle Nursing Home, Ardglass.  She was 95 years old.

Mrs O’Neill was born in Downpatrick in 1921, the eldest of three daughters born to parents Charles and Cecilia Holland.

From a very early age and throughout her life she adored learning and her particular interests included music, reading, dance, history, languages and art.

Educated in Downpatrick, Cavan and later in Dublin, she then began her career in the Northern Ireland Civil Service during the Second World War. It was during this time that she met her husband, Hugh. 

Mrs O’Neill was a tremendous support to her husband, whose training and career as a marine engineer were both gruelling and kept him from home for long periods of time.

As a housewife, Mrs O’Neill enjoyed cooking, baking, crafts and gardening, alongside caring for her family.

She often accompanied her family on sailing trips, but also enjoyed her travels further afield and continued to travel abroad well into her eighties.

During her spare time she volunteered with the Legion of Mary, War on Want and also spent time volunteering with children with disabilities. 

For the last two years of her life, Mrs O’Neill lived at Abbeyfield House in Downpatrick, where her highly regarded friendships with both staff and residents very much gave her a new lease of life. 

As her health deteriorated she was cared for at King’s Castle, Ardglass, and she often remarked on the kindness of all of those who cared for her there.

Mrs O’Neill’s funeral was held on November 28, 2016, and was conducted by Fr Paul Alexander, PP.  She is survived by her son, Brian, sister, Jacqui Johnston, daughter-in-law, Ashleen, and grandchildren, Bronagh, Fionnbhár and Ciarán.