While the rest of the country celebrated the dawning of a new year last night, in county Laois, tributes were paid to Ireland’s oldest woman who sadly passed away.
The Irish Daily Star reports that Mary Kate Byrne, who was 108 years of age, passed away peacefully at her home in Laois yesterday afternoon.
Known as ‘Poppy,’ Mary Kate was born in August 1904 and lived with her son next door to four generations of her family. It is believed that Mary Kate ran the family farm with her husband until he sadly passed away 52 years ago.
John Moran, a councillor in Laois, described her as a “great character” who was highly respected in her local community.
“We are very sad to hear of Mary Kate’s passing,” said councillor Moran.
“She lived through it all and read her daily newspaper back to front every day and could chat about any subject,” he added.
Mary Kate Byrne sadly passed away yesterday afternoon
Mary Kate was officially crowned Ireland’s oldest citizen by Aras an Uachtarain in September 2011 and was known for her friendly nature and good health.
According to reports, Mary Kate was fond of a full Irish breakfast and put her long life and her health down to her avoidance of processed foods, biscuits and alcohol.
“She was never ill and only visited the doctor for the first time in recent years,” said councillor Moran.
“She was always in good health and it’s very poignant that she has passed on New Year’s Eve, the last day of the year,” he added.
Mary Kate lived a remarkable life and we extend our condolences to her family.
