Local Notes: Recent deaths, Athleague Camino and Dip and collection in aid of the County Roscommon Museum
Bernie Kelly, Kathy Lannon and Emily Murray, Sliabh Bán, Strokestown, pictured at the Roscommon Harriers 10-Mile Road Race. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin
The death occurred on Friday, June 27th, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, after a long illness bravely borne, in the devoted care of the staff of Mullingar Regional Hospital of Mr James O’Neill, Cloontuskert.
James was well known throughout County Roscommon having worked at Casey’s in Roscommon Town for over 25 years.
Customers said he was “a real gentleman who always had a smile on his face and was always very friendly to the customers”.
He was regarded as “an extremely diligent and hard-working gentleman. He was so polite always. A man of few words but so sincere.” Management at Casey’s said that James retired from the business “a few years ago after working over 25 years with us. James was an absolute gentleman who dedicated his time to family, helping others as well as being an active member of Cloontuskert Tidy Towns. James wasn’t just someone we worked with- he was a true presence at Casey’s. Always smiling, always welcoming, and always ready for a chat, he brought warmth and kindness to everyone who crossed his path. May he Rest in Peace.” He will be forever missed by his heartbroken family – his daughter, Shauna, son, TJ, their mother, Margaret, his mother, Elizabeth, sisters, Ann and Carmel, brother, Denis, brothers-in-law Paddy and Bernie, Denis’ partner Marion, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and wide circle of friends. He was predeceased by his father Tom and his sister Bridget. Mass of the Resurrection takes place this morning Tuesday morning at 11 a.m. in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon with cremation afterwards in Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan, at 2.15 p.m.. The O’Neill family very much appreciate your support at this time.
The annual church gate collection in aid of the County Roscommon Museum, located on The Square Roscommon Town, will take place at Masses in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon this Saturday and Sunday, July 5th and 6th. Volunteers who may wish to assist in the collection, particularly members of the County Roscommon Historical and Archaeological Society (CRHAS), are invited to assist at 7 p.m. Mass this Saturday (July 5th) and at Sunday morning Masses (July 6th) at 9 a.m. and 11.30 a.m If interested, please assemble at the front entrance of the church on Abbey Street, no later than 30 minutes before the start of each Mass. Please contact CRHAS PRO Darragh Kelly on 086-1731517 no later than 1 p.m. this Thursday, July 3rd, if interested in volunteering. Proceeds raised will go the general upkeep and management of the County Museum, a resource beloved by Roscommon people, both near and far.
The Athleague Camino and Dip takes place on Sunday, July 20th starting at 12.30 p.m.. This is a 6km loop walk starting and ending at the Riverside Centre with the option to take a dip in the River Suck. You can book now at cycleup.ie/camino This event is kindly sponsored by Kepak.
National Playday 2025 takes place at Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle on Sunday, July 6th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.. Free entry. Roscommon County Council invites families to an afternoon of fun, laughter, and play.
Now is the perfect time to sign up for Summer Stars 2025 at Roscommon Library. Each child will receive a book bag and an activity book full of wonderful puzzles and games. Fill in the reading card and return it to the library to be in with a chance of winning a wonderful hamper full of goodies.
Got a teen who loves being creative? The Creative Summer Programme at CycleUp is the perfect way to keep hands busy and minds inspired this July. The programme includes upcycling leftover textiles into cool projects (including a tote bag!). The programme will take place at the Riverside Centre, Athleague from July 14th–18th, 10 a.m.–1 p.m., all materials included. Book now via cycleup.ie/shop Spaces are limited – don’t miss out on this fun, creative week at CycleUp
Huge thanks to Liam Hannon - PT & group instructor for putting all attendees through their paces as part of the recent Buggy Buddies programme. A big shout out to everyone who came along and took part, your energy and enthusiasm made it a fantastic experience.
Roscommon Sports Partnership is incredibly proud of its very own Noel Feely, who teamed up with tandem partner Ciaran Butler to take on the Mondello 24 Hour Challenge as part of the Para Cycling Commission team. Together with their teammates, they completed an incredible 198 laps, that’s 687 km around the Mondello Park circuit securing an impressive 15th place. Huge well done to Noel, Ciaran, and the entire team from all at RSP
Mass will be celebrated in Kilteevan Graveyard on Saturday, July 26th at 7 p.m., weather permitting. Otherwise, Mass will be celebrated in the church PILATES A new four week term of pilates starts Wednesday, July 2nd at the Quad Centre, Roscommon at 9.30 a.m.. Suitable for beginners. All welcome. Text Bonnie 087 2238237.
A bus departs from Roscommon at 8 a.m. for the Rally for Life on Saturday, July 5th at Parnell Square, Dublin, preceded by Mass at 12 noon at St. Saviour's, Dominic St. (D01 VH96). Bus fare €25. Booking essential. Contact Siobhan on 083 0254 809.
Ladies Day at Roscommon Racecourse is on Monday, July 7th from 4.30 p.m. – 8.30 p.m.. Guest judge is designer and bridal boutique owner Lorren Kelly from the award winning "The One I Love" in Ballinlough. Lorren, who has won multi awards, previously judged at the Roscommon Rose of Tralee selection and has decked out brides/bridal parties/mother of the bride, graduates, and event attendees and Rose of Tralee finalists from all over the country.
Summer bridge is held on Wednesdays at 7.30 p.m. in Hannon’s Hotel. All bridge players welcome. All proceeds go to local charities.
As part of the annual Siarscéal Literary Festival, which is supported but the Roscommon Creative Ireland Programme, Roscommon Library is hosting a two-week series of animation workshops for young adults, July 15th-25th, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., suitable for ages 12 to 14 years. The workshops are led by Fergal Brennan, an award-winning animator and animation teacher based in Leitrim. It includes practical animation tips, and all materials are provided. Workshops are FREE but places are limited so booking is essential.
Cemetery Mass will take place in St. Coman’s Cemetery on Saturday, August 16th at 7 p.m.
The Legion of Mary is organising a day trip to Lough Derg on Saturday, September 6th, leaving the Sacred Heart Church car park at 6.30 a.m.. For bookings please contact Teresa 087 1206343 or Noreen on 086 3529916 (090 6625209).
Do you need help with your smartphone, tablet or laptop? Come along to Roscommon Library on Thursdays from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. where you can get help and advice from a tutor from Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB).For further information, phone Roscommon Library on 090 6637277 or email library@roscommoncoco.ie
Roscommon Library hosts Storytime every Saturday at 12 noon (excluding Bank Holidays).
Ballinaheglish Tidy Towns and Village Enhancement Group is holding an 8km fundraising walk at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 13th commencing at Ballinaheglish Church car park, €10 per person, €20 per family. Refreshments served afterwards. Please support.
