Comhaltas branch pays tribute to 'dear friend' who died in Kildare

One of the most active branches of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann has paid a poignant tribute to a Laois woman whose family are immersed in traditional music and who herself played a central role in the branch for many years.

Ethna Vesey of Laburnum Close, Ballyroan Road, Abbeyleix, passed away peacefully on July 3 at St Brigid's Hospice, Kildare, following a long illness, which her death notice said she managed with dignity and great courage, surrounded by her loving and caring family.

She was cherished by her husband, Lawrence, sons, David and Mark, daughters, Laura and Sarah, their partners, Martina, Jenny and Sam, her parents, John and Martha. She is also dearly missed byher brothers, Seán, Declan and Kevin Dominic, mother-in-law, Margaret, brothers-in-law, John, Patrick, James, Thomas and Brian, sisters-in-law, Marie, Doriana, Yurie, Mairéad, Carol and Michelle, nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.

The deceased and her family were widely known for their passion for traditional Irish music, dance, and song, as shown by their unstinting involvement with Spink Comhaltas. The branch paid tribute and extended sympathy on her passing.

“It is with profound sadness that Spink Comhaltas has learned of the passing of our dear friend, Ethna Vesey, following a courageous battle with cancer.

“Ethna was an integral part of our branch for many years. Through her kindness, generosity, encouragement and unwavering support, she touched the lives of countless members, families and teachers. Her quiet presence, warm smile and willingness to help made Spink Comhaltas a better place for everyone.

“The Vesey family has been at the heart of our branch for generations. Lawrence served as Chairperson of Spink Comhaltas for ten years, with Ethna by his side every step of the way. Their children – David, Mark, Laura and Sarah – were all outstanding members of our branch, with David continuing the family tradition through his teaching on Friday evenings.

“Ethna's parents, Martha and John, were also tremendous supporters of Spink Comhaltas, attending performances and competitions over many years and always encouraging our members.

“The contribution of the Vesey family to Spink Comhaltas cannot be measured. Their dedication, commitment and friendship have helped shape our branch into the community it is today, and for that we will always be grateful.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Lawrence, David, Mark, Laura, Sarah, Martha, John and the entire Vesey and Delaney family at this heartbreaking time May Ethna rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis,” said the tribute on social media.

Reposal took place at Chapel of Rest adjoining the Church of the Most Holy Rosary Abbeyleix. Her remains were removed for Requiem Mass on Monday, July 6 to the Church of the Most Holy Rosary Abbeyleix with burial afterwards in St Patrick's Cemetery.

The family extended sincere gratitude to what was described as the wonderful care provided by the family doctor John Madden, community pharmacist Evelyn Casserly, the staff of the Mater Private Hospital and the entire team in St Brigid's Hospice, Kildare. They also thanked the team at the Cuisle Centre in Portlaoise for their support over the last year.

Donations, if desired, to the Cuisle Centre or the Irish Cancer Society.