The Late Katty Raymond Katty Raymond (Nee Counihan) Kevin Barry's Villas, Tralee who died on Sunday December 19 was a woman with a caring heart and a special welcome for children. Aged 87 Katty was daughter of William and Margaret Counihan (nee Riordan) and was born at Waterloo Lane, Tralee. She died at Cuil Didin Nursing Home, Skehanagh, Tralee, where she had been resident for a short period. Her father's family were well-known stonemasons who hailed from Garryruth, Ballymullen, Tralee, while her mother's family resided at Farmer's Bridge, just outside the town. Though christened Kathleen, she was known to one and all as Katty, a name that stayed with her all her life. A woman with a warm and smiling disposition, Katty would have been regarded as one of Tralee's old stock. Katty who made daily trips down town to do her shopping - accompanied by her lifelong friend Bridie Savage - brought a smile to many people's faces with her good humour. Following daily Mass at 10am, both women would stroll down the Mall with empty pushchairs. These would be full coming home with messages purchased in Woolworths or Victor Ryan's in the Square, where they would swap stories. Bus tours and pilgrimages to Knock Shrine and Holy Cross Abbey, were enjoyed in the company of Biddy Tobin and Bridie Savage also. As a young woman, Katty worked in St John's Laundry, which was run by the Sisters of Mercy in Balloonagh. She often recalled funny incidents and happy times with other girls who worked with her. Later she was employed at the CYMS in Denny Street, where the late Jerry Ashe and Jim O'Brien kept the house in order. Katty met and married Mick Raymond from Strand Road. Mick current president of the Kerins O'Rahillys club, was a classy and stylish footballer with the Blues and Kerry. When he graced the green sod of Croke Park, Katty was on the sideline with her friend Peggie O'Halloran to cheer him on. Mick and Katty shared 65 very happy years together and expressed their love for one another regularly. Even though she had been unwell for some time, Mick was always by her side, caring for the women who meant so much to him. Like all mothers, Katty was very proud of her daughters, Teresa and Carmel. When the grandchildren were born, she lavished her time and love on them also. Her house was a great stopping-off point for her nephews and nieces on their way home from school. Katty received wonderful care and attention from the respite workers who called to see her. The nurses and staff of the nursing home also with Dr Ruane showed her great kindness, for which her family are most grateful. Removal of her remains took place from Hogan's Funeral Home to St John's Church on Monday December 20. Following Requiem Mass the following morning the funeral took place to New Rath Cemetery. Katty is survived by her husband Michael, daughters Teresa and Carmel, nieces and nephews in Ireland and England, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sons-in-law, relatives and friends. Suaimhneas siorrar da anam dilis. Courtesy of the Kerryman 6th January 2005 Tweet

Most Read Stories