Mary Forde (née Goaley)
Balrobuckmore
1925-2018
An Appreciation
It was with deep regret and a sense of loss that we learned of the death of Society member Mary Forde (née Goaley) on 3 October. Over many years Mary contributed in large measure to the development of the Society, with her erudite teachings both oral and written, her practical insights to life in general, her keen sense of humour, her boundless generosity and her faithfulness to the people and places in her beloved parish of Annaghdown.
Mary was born in the village of Annaghdown in January 1925, the eldest of nine children of John Goaley (Annaghdown) and Katie Skerritt (Kilgill). Following education at Annaghdown National School, she emigrated to Bradford after World War II, where her uncle, Canon Martin Goaley, was a parish priest in the Diocese of Leeds. She returned to Annaghdown some years later and married Patrick Forde of Balrobuckmore. Patrick predeceased her in 1997. Their family, Padraic, Martina and Bernadette, and later, her five grandchildren, were at the centre of Mary’s life.
Mary was involved in the Heritage Society since its inception and has left us a lasting legacy which is treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She wrote several articles for the parish magazine Anach Cuain, and we have now published these on our website in her memory. She was always available to those interested in Annaghdown history and genealogy, and her characteristic wit and good humour were enjoyed by many. Our sympathies go especially to the Forde and Goaley families who mourn her loss. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam uasal.
Note: This originally appeared in our Winter 2018 Newsletter.
Mary’s articles in Anach Cuain are available on this website as follows:
- Was it the Communists? Annaghdown Church Fire, 1936, Anach Cuain 2004.
- The Great Fundraiser of 1946, Anach Cuain 2006.
- Are We Prepared? Reflections by Mary Forde, Anach Cuain 2008.
- Fr. Martin Goaley, Annaghdown, Anach Cuain 2010.
