O'Brien, Judy
October 25, 2003
The Late Judy O'Brien
Mrs Judy O'Brien of 35 St Fiacre's Place, Kilkenny, who has died, was the wife of former county hurling great, Liam "Chunky" O'Brien.
Mrs O'Brien (53) became ill at her home, and after a brave 19-day battle for life, died at St Luke's hospital, Kilkenny.
Judy was a quiet and inoffensive woman who was always prepared to offer a helping hand and kind word to someone in need. She was a deeply devoted mother, who was always there for her family.
She worked at Butler House, Kilkenny, and she was immensely popular with her fellow workmates.
She loved and was deeply passionate about sport, particularly hurling. Judy shared the highs and lows with her husband during his glittering career with James Stephens and on the inter-county stage.
Like a true sports person, she always took the bad with the good. She enjoyed the victories. She accepted defeats with grace.
In latter years she relived the joys of the game through her grandchildren. Again she was always there to offer encouragement and support.
The former Miss Owens from the Kells Road, Kilkenny, also loved bingo, music and walking. She attended the then weekly bingo sessions in the Carlton ballroom and at St Canice's hall.
She walked daily with her friend and neighbour, Mary Brennan, and their favourite trek was down the Canal Walk along the banks of the river Nore.
The remains were removed to St Patrick's Church, Kilkenny, where they were received by Fr Liam Taylor. Bishop Laurence Forristal of Ossory presided. Also present were Fr Donal McCarthy of the Pallotine Fathers, Dublin, a cousin of Mr O'Brien and Fr Sean O'Connor, St Patrick's.
A guard of honour was formed by members of the James Stephens club, representatives of GAA clubs throughout the county and former inter-county colleagues of Mr O'Brien.
Burial was in Foulkstown cemetery, Kilkenny. During the Mass items were brought to the altar depicting Mrs O'Brien's life. These included a family picture, a hurling jersey, bingo card and a CD of Joe Dolan, her favourite artist.
The readings were taken by Tommy Muldowney (family friend) and Eamon O'Brien (brother-in-law).
Prayers of the Faithful were said by Shane O'Brien (grandson), Aisling O'Brien (daughter-in-law), Matthew Boyle (son-on-law), Gerard O'Brien and Brian Jordan.
She is survived by her husband, Liam, Derek, Mark, Liam (Sons), Nicola O'Brien ( daughter); Pat Owens (brother); Shane, Derek, Ian, Amy, Sarah and Dillon O'Brien (grandchildren) and a host of other relatives and friends.
Courtesy of the Kilkenny People
25th October 2003
Most Read Stories