The Crossmaglen and wider south Armagh community is mourning the sudden passing of a much-loved mother and friend who passed away unexpectedly in hospital over the weekend.
Maeve McKeown (neé Hanratty), has been described as a beloved wife to Declan and devoted mother to Stephen.
She was the cherished daughter of Eugene and Colette Hanratty, and a dear sister to Eugene, Pauline (Wood), and Brenda (Murphy).
She was also a much-loved sister-in-law to James, Miceal, Barry, Teresa, and Bronagh. Her passing has left a profound void in the lives of her family, friends, and the wider South Armagh community.
Maeve will repose at McConville’s Funeral Home, O’Fiaich Square, today (Monday) from 4-6pm, with visitors welcome to pay their respects. She will be removed at 6:15pm, passing her family home on Newry Street, Crossmaglen, to her residence in Cregganduff, which will remain strictly private.
Wake visiting times are set for Tuesday, November 12 from 12-9pm, ahead of the funeral on Wednesday, November 12. The cortege will leave her home at 10:20am (house strictly private) for St Patrick’s Church, Crossmaglen, for 11am Funeral Mass, which will be livestreamed via Upper Creggan Parish website. Burial will follow in the adjoining cemetery.
Crossmaglen Rangers GAA club were among the many individuals and organisations to pay tribute to a woman held in such high regard within her community.
“The entire Crossmaglen Rangers club are saddened to learn of the sudden and untimely passing of Maeve McKeown,” a club spokesperson wrote.
“Maeve grew up in a house steeped in black and amber. Her grandfather Gene was the 1926 Armagh Captain and her father Eugene won four county championship medals in the 1960s. Maeve and the Hanratty family were loyal supporters on and off the field, whether cheering from the sidelines or taking part in fundraisers.
“Maeve was a great community activist and a proud South Armagh woman. Her loss is immeasurable. To Maeve’s husband Declan, son Stephen, parents Eugene & Colette, brother Eugene & Teresa, sisters Brenda & Miceal, Pauline & James, nieces & nephews, and the extended McKeown & Hanratty families, we send our heartfelt condolences. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.”
From Ashfield Golf Club, tributes remembered her warmth and infectious laughter: “Ashfield Ladies are devastated by the sudden passing of our dear friend and teammate, Maeve McKeown.
“She was a cherished part of the club for just two years, but left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Maeve will be remembered not just for her love of the game, but for her warm spirit, infectious laugh, and the wonderful camaraderie she brought to every round. Rest in peace, beautiful Maeve. You will be deeply missed.”
Friends and neighbours described Maeve “the life and soul of any party”, a woman who “just lit the place up with her warm smile and embrace”.
Another described Maeve as a “vibrant, beautiful person…every memory I have of Maeve includes smiles and laughter”.
From the plethora of glowing tributes, Maeve was clearly a woman with boundless energy and spirit – a positive reflection of her community.
Maeve will be missed by so many. No doubt she has left an indelible mark on Crossmaglen. May she Rest in Peace.
