Limerick Shop Owner Dies: Remembering a Great Entrepreneur
Maria O’Leary: A Life of Entrepreneurship, Family, and Community Spirit
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Maria O’Leary, a woman celebrated for her entrepreneurial drive, unwavering work ethic, and vibrant spirit, has passed away peacefully at her home. Her life, marked by accomplished ventures in business and a deep commitment to her family, has left an indelible mark on those who knew her.
A Legacy Forged in business and Family
Maria’s journey in teh world of commerce began early, working in her family’s newsagents and grocers, the sole establishment of its kind in Ballylongford during her youth. Her innate business acumen, however, soon led her to expand her horizons.
Pioneering Ventures and a Thriving Pub
“She was a great entrepreneur,” recalled auctioneer Pat, a close associate. “As a young woman, in a small place like ballylongford, she opened a fashion shop for ladies next to the grocery shop.” This early success was followed by a significant move when Maria and her family acquired a bar in Ballybunion. Under their stewardship, it blossomed into the renowned pub, The Old Attic.
It was in ballybunion that Maria met her husband, Liam O’Leary. Their marriage marked a new chapter,leading them to relocate to Limerick. There, Maria’s entrepreneurial spirit truly shone as she established and ran a highly successful supermarket business, a venture she is perhaps best known for. “She built up a great business there with Liam and their five children,” pat added.
Following their retirement from the supermarket, maria and Liam found a peaceful haven in Waterville, on Ennis Road, where they settled into a well-deserved retirement.
Character and Community Contributions
Maria’s dedication to her work was legendary.”Maria was a hard hard worker. She worked every minute of every day,” Pat emphasized. Beyond her professional achievements, she was remembered as a loyal friend, a visionary in business, and someone who possessed a remarkable zest for life.
“She loved the craic, she loved functions, and she loved singing and dancing. She had a great party spirit,” Pat fondly recalled. This infectious enthusiasm extended to her community involvement.
Gerry Keating, secretary of the Limerick City branch of the Garda Siochana Retired Members’ Association, expressed the organization’s “deep sadness” at Maria’s passing and extended their sincere sympathies.
Tributes poured in, with one heartfelt message on www.rip.ie describing Maria as “the best Kerry woman ever!” The sentiment was further amplified by a reference to Kerry’s recent All-Ireland Senior Football Championship victory, noting, “Thank goodness the Kingdom sent her off with Sam safely home.”
A Cherished Family Matriarch
Maria O’Leary passed away on Tuesday, July 29th. She was the beloved wife of the late Liam, and a dearly loved mother to Deirdre, Tim, Liam, Sinead, and the late Fiona. Her legacy continues through her loving son-in-law Piero, daughters-in-law Colette and orla, and her cherished grandchildren Marianne, Callum, Hannah, Eve, Ciara, Donal, Emma, Will, and Liam. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Aidan. Maria is survived by her brother Mike, sisters eileen and Kay, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, and friends. She was predeceased by her brother Jerry and sister Nuala.
Funeral Arrangements and Tributes
Maria will repose at Thompson’s Funeral Home, Thomas Street, Limerick, on Friday, August 1st, from 5pm to 6:30pm. Her funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Ennis Road, on Saturday, August 2nd, at 11am, followed by burial in Ballycannon Cemetery, meelick.
A live stream of the requiem Mass will be available at https://www.ourladyoftherosaryparishlimerick.ie/our-parish/web-cam/.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Irish Cancer Society or Milford Care Center.
Maria O’Leary will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace.