Tralee Woman, Maureen O’Brien, Remembered as Devoted Mother and Grandmother
Tralee, Kerry – Maureen O’Brien (née Herlihy), a beloved mother, grandmother, and member of the Tralee and Knocknagoshel communities, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, at St. Louis Nursing Home in Tralee. She was in her later years, and surrounded by family during her final days.
Born in Knocknagoshel, Co. Kerry, Maureen later resided in Clash West, Tralee. Her passing follows that of her husband, Seán, and her parents, William and Ellen Herlihy.
Maureen is survived by her four children: John, Fergal, Ciarán, and Aoife. She also leaves behind her daughters-in-law, Marlies, Tara, and Ciara, and her son-in-law, John Bowe. Her legacy extends to her eight grandchildren – Cormac, Ella, Scotia, Niamh, Kate, Seán, John Bowe Jnr, and Hannah – who will deeply miss her presence.
The O’Brien family is also comprised of Maureen’s siblings: Billy, Johnny, Pat, Sheila, Phil, and Eileen, along with a wide network of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours, and friends. Her faithful canine companion, Moses, who shared many years by her side, also mourns her loss.
The family has expressed sincere gratitude to the staff of St. Louis Nursing Home for the “exceptional kindness, dignity and care” shown to Maureen. They also extended thanks to the Palliative Care Team, her doctors, O’Donoghue’s Pharmacy, and the carers who provided support in recent years.
Reposing will take place at McElligott’s Funeral Home, Tralee, on Tuesday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The Funeral Mass will be held at St. John’s Church, Tralee, on Wednesday at 12 noon, following arrival at 11:30 AM. The Requiem Mass will be streamed live on www.stjohns.ie for those unable to attend in person.
Following the Mass, Maureen will be laid to rest in Rath Cemetery, Tralee. The family has requested that family flowers be omitted, with donations, if desired, directed to Recovery Haven, a charity that held a special place in Maureen’s heart. Donations can be made online at recoveryhavenkerry.com/donate or through McElligott’s Funeral Home in Tralee.
The family has requested privacy at this time, noting that the house will be strictly private. Enquiries regarding the funeral arrangements can be directed to McElligott’s Funeral Home, Tralee.
Suaimhneas síoraí dá hanam uasal – May her noble soul rest in peace.
