The death has occurred of former Castleisland librarian, Kitty Downey Cragg, Castleisland and late of College Road, Castleisland.
On Wednesday, June 15th. 2016, peacefully at her residence surrounded by her loving family.
Predeceased by her sisters, Mary and Breda. Sadly missed by her loving brothers, Fr. Jimmy and Timmy, sister Norrie O’Connor, nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Diligent Librarian
Kitty Downey (88) was a dedicated and diligent librarian and she was as synonymous with the library service in the general Castleisland area as the historic building itself.
Generations of readers of library books down through the years here and in neighbouring parishes will have fond memories of her – unless they failed to return a book or worse still return one in bad condition.
When my own life took a turn in the direction of this occupation I spent many hours in the peace and quiet of the fine old building at the top-of-the-town.
In-depht Knowledge
Ms. Downey often came to my assistance with her in-depth knowledge of local history and the publications thereon.
Kitty Downey replaced Castleisland’s first librarian, Miss Kitty Cahill on her retirement in 1948 after serving since 1929. Ms. Downey served on her own as librarian until her retirement in January 1993.
After operating for 79 years in the Carnegie building at the top of the town, Castleisland Library closed on August 13th. 2008 and opened at the bottom of the town at the new Castleisland Area Services Centre in Station Road a week later.
Kerry County Council staff invited Kitty Downey to the old building on its last day and, of course, to the official opening of the new chapter in the service in Castleisland in April 2010.
May God be good to her.
Funeral Arrangements
Reposing at Tangney’s Funeral Home, Castleisland on Friday evening from 5pm to 7pm followed by removal to Castleisland Parish Chuch. Requiem Mass on Saturday at 11am. Burial afterwards in Kilbanivane Cemetery, Castleisland. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu to Palliative Care Kerry University Hospital. May she rest in peace
Date Published: Thursday 16th June 2016. Date of Death: Wednesday 15th June 2016.
