Mary (May) McManus

Mary (neé Kavanagh) McManus was a Dublin woman, born and raised in Foley Street Dublin 1. Marrying her beloved Husband Gerard (Gerry) McManus. Later making her forever home on Oriel Street where she built a life with her family that had endured much hardship and challenge throughout life but nevertheless lived a life full of resilience, making unforgettable memories, and many lifetime friends & neighbours.

May was a mother of five children: Yvonne, Sharon, twins Gerard & Lorraine and her youngest Martin. Early in life May carried the heartbreak of loosing her baby daughter Lorraine, who passed away at just a few weeks old. Later to endure the unimaginable loss of her Husband Gerry who she spend many long years missing. Then lost her two beloved sons Gerard & Martin 7 years ago both deaths within 3 months. May endured much pain and grief All before her time. We hope wherever they may be that she is reunited with her boys — once again. As we now once she’s back in there arms - she will be at forever peace.

May found joy in simple pleasures - sharing chats with her friends over a hot cup of tea and a few biscuits, loved to reminisce on years ago and treating herself to the occasional chipper, but only if there was fresh ray to offer, covered in plenty of salt & vinegar just the way she like it. She was known for her love of cleaning; if you knew May, you knew her home was spotless - you could possibly even eat your dinner off the floor without a second thought!

A working woman all her life - up until the moment she no longer could due to a sudden sickness that became apart of her life. She had a sharp wit and brilliant sense of humour, paired with a level of honesty that was rare and refreshing. If you wanted the truth you could definitely rely on May to give it to you. Though, small in stature, she had a presence that filled every room and left a lasting mark on everyone she met.

We will forever treasure the last couple of months of Mays life - Although these moments were filled with worry and fear looking back those wore the moments that matters the most - it is what we hold onto.

Although my nanny had been sick - A sense of brightness came back, one she had been without for many years after loosing her sons. Never failing to make us laugh. It was unpredictable what you might say next! I’d spend the rest of my days at the side of that hospital bed once I knew I had her here with me.

After 6 long months in hospital I remember the day she got home and the first thing she was focused on coming into her garden - if her windows wore clean - nothing mattered more!

There’s so many reminders of our nanny May, she made sure to make it hard to forget her! Keep guiding us, keep giving us the strength we need - we miss you lot hold the boys tight for us.

Our beautiful Mother and Nanny May, has left a hole in our family & hearts that will never mend. Her warmth, her laughter, and her unforgettable spirit is dearly missed but will never be forgotten.

There’s not a minute of any day that you don’t cross my mind. I still hear your voice, almost ring you when something happens. Nanny there’s so much I wish to tell you - but until then, good night.

We miss you sorely & long for your presence. Until one day when we meet again.

Love, your grand-daughter Tori & The McManus Family xx