Well known Kildare hotel and restaurant owner is remembered

One of Naas’ best known businesswomen has been the subject of many tributes in the wake of her recent death. A native of Kildalkey, Co Meath, Ms Monaghan passed away on June 6.

Mary Monaghan was proprietor of the Harbour Hotel at Newbridge Road, for many years and the premises also hosted a popular restaurant, which was frequented by many.

Many of the tributes made reference to Ms Monaghan's hotel and restaurant enterprise with one resident commenting “I have grateful memories of a time when she catered and cared for a cohort of teachers, gardai and bank staff at lunchtime. The quality of the food and efficiency of the service were top class. She was greatly esteemed and appreciated by all of us.”

Many comments were posted on the RIP.ie website including one which read: “Sincere condolences to all the Monaghan family on Mary’s sad passing, what a lovely Lady always a smile and a chat when you arrive into the hotel, we stayed in the Harbour Hotel a couple of times a year, our last was 30th April when we were there for Punchestown, she was sitting outside reception that was our last chat with her, lovely hotel lovely staff.”

Another post read: “Very sad to hear Mary has died. I only got to know her in recent years after a few stays at the hotel. She was a fantastic character and I loved the little chats every time I walked into reception. Even if the hotel was full she would do her best to fit you in somewhere, as she wouldn't see you stuck.”

Cllr Seamie Moore commented: “Sincere sympathies to Josephine and Mary and to all of the extended Monaghan family on the sad loss of Mary. She had the respect and admiration of the whole town of Naas and much further afield, for her diligence, courage, honesty and admirable work ethics. She was a lovely person.”

Mary Elliffe of the nearby Town House Hotel said: “She was a very kind lady and a great business woman. She sent lots of business to us over the years and we shared groups of guests together.”

Another comment referred to the ending of an era. “Many a social night out spent in The Harbour View in years gone by. She always had time for a chat, and always made sure to ask if you enjoyed your food when you finished eating. She was an exceptional lady. It surely is the end of an era.”

Predeceased by her husband John, Ms Monaghan is survived by daughters Josephine and Mary, sisters, brother, son-in-law John, grandchild Colin, loyal staff and friends.

Her funeral took place to St Corban’s Cemetery, Naas, following requiem mass at the Church of Our Lady and St. David, Naas.