In the tapestry of life, the threads of love and family weave stories that endure long after we're gone – and today, we're heartbroken to share the passing of a cherished soul whose warmth lit up so many lives.
Anna Flannery (née Mangan), who hailed from Red House Hill in Patrickswell, County Limerick, and was formerly from Kiltale in County Meath, passed away peacefully on December 2nd, 2025, at Thorpes Nursing Home in Clarina. She was a late member of the Young at Heart Club in Mungret-Raheen, and her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew her.
But here's where it gets personal – Anna was predeceased by her loving husband Paddy, her brother Frank, her sister Mary, her parents Annie and John, her sisters-in-law Myra and Eileen, and her brother-in-law Tom. This list reminds us of the layers of loss that families endure over time, each one a reminder of the circle of life that connects us all.
And this is the part most people miss – the depth of her legacy lives on through her deeply devoted family. She is survived and mourned by her loving daughters Anne and Mary, her son Pa, her adored grandchildren Gillian and Robert, her daughter-in-law Marie, her sons-in-law Paul and Mick, her sisters Pat and Margaret, her brother Peter, as well as her nephews, nieces, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, other relatives, friends, and neighbors. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
Her remains will repose at St. Nessan's Church in Raheen on Thursday, December 4th, from 5pm to 6.30pm. For those unfamiliar, a repose is a traditional vigil where loved ones gather to pay their respects before the funeral, offering a quiet space for reflection and remembrance.
A Requiem Mass – a special Catholic service praying for the deceased's soul – will be held on Friday, December 5th, at 12pm, followed by burial at Old Mungret Cemetery. In a nod to modern times, Anna's Requiem Mass will be streamed live, making it accessible to those who can't attend in person. You can view it here: https://urldefense.com/v3/https://www.churchservices.tv/raheen;!!F0Stn7g!DcY2GRv6WXot9vCOXgEwmQ-Zi52ITPsmL6UG4SiSbFEXDfnt_UADtvrfQVjqmGx0huM-aaLCaSqThAyaisQj2Q$
Now, here's a point that might spark some debate – in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests no floral tributes, but welcomes donations to the Alzheimer's Society of Ireland if desired. This choice reflects a growing trend toward meaningful contributions, like supporting research into Alzheimer's disease, which affects millions and touches many families personally. You can donate at: https://urldefense.com/v3/https://alzheimer.ie/get-involved/become-a-friend-support-asi/donate/;!!F0Stn7g!DcY2GRv6WXot9vCOXgEwmQ-Zi52ITPsmL6UG4SiSbFEXDfnt_UADtvrfQVjqmGx0huM-aaLCaSqThAyOHpzFug$
Anna's family extends their heartfelt thanks to the management and staff of Thorpes Nursing Home for the extraordinary care and compassion they provided. It's a testament to the vital role that dedicated caregivers play in the final chapters of life, ensuring dignity and comfort during challenging times.
Arrangements are being handled by Cross Funeral Homes, located at 2 Lower Gerald Griffin Street, Limerick, V94X971, and in Ballyneety, County Limerick, V94A7Y3. Reach them at 061-410744, via email at info@crossfuneralhomes.com, or on their website: www.crossfuneralhomes.com.
What do you think about these evolving funeral traditions – like streaming services or directing donations to charities instead of flowers? Does it honor the deceased more meaningfully, or do you prefer the classics? Share your perspective in the comments; we'd love to hear differing views!
