90TH BIRTHDAY: Eileen Flynn from Lisheenbawn, Farranfore celebrated her 90th birthday last week.

By Michelle Crean

It was a very special birthday for Eileen Flynn at her home last week as family members gathered to celebrate her 90th year.

Due to the current restrictions Eileen wasn't able to go out for a meal or have a party with her neighbours and friends for the momentous occasion on Friday, August 30 - but family called to her home in Lisheenbawn, Farranfore where they made a fuss of her.

She was joined by her two sons John and Jerry, her four daughters Philomena, Eileen, Martina and Ann as well as their spouses and partners. Eight of of 13 grandchildren were able to join them as well as two of her great-grandchildren. Her daughter Noreen, who lives in The Bronx in New York, joined them via a WhatsApp video call.

"She enjoyed it," her daughter Ann, who travelled down from Westmeath with her husband Keith and two sons Dean and Cody, told the Killarney Advertiser.

"We had a gathering to mark it. We couldn't invite the neighbours which was sad. She was able to see Noreen on the phone and Noreen sang her 'Happy Birthday'.

Eileen was born and reared in Lixnaw and moved to Lisheenbawn after she married Joe. Sadly Joe passed away over 10 years ago.

Ann said that she was delighted with the low key affair and loved the many presents, one which was a chain with a family tree.

Ann described Eileen, who loves music from Big Tom and dancing, as loving and caring, a person you could go to with anything.

"She's calm and never panics. She'll always give you the best advice and you can ring her anytime."