Deep sadness at passing of former Mayo publican
Many tributes have been paid to the late Helen Forde.
There is great sadness across South Mayo at the news of the passing of Helen Forde, Cloonfad, Co Roscommon; Galway and formerly of 'The Country Club' (Forde's Pub) in Hollybrook, Claremorris.
Helen (nee Conneelly) is fondly remembered for her time in 'The Country Club' where she was a most warm-hearted, good-humoured and genial host who was renowned for her kindness and decency. She was also a woman with a great zest for life who will be forever remembered for her infectious enthusiasm and energy.
Helen passed away peacefully in the early hours of Wednesday last, August 12th, at the Bons Secours Hospital in Galway, surrounded by her loving family.
She was beloved wife of Malachy Forde and mother to Karen and Andrew Forde.
She is deeply mourned and very sadly missed by her heartbroken family, especially her six grandchildren of whom she cherished dearly - Bodhi, Indie, Levi, Saoirse, Donnacha and Laoise.
Helen will lie in repose at the O’Flaherty Funeral Parlour, Munster Avenue, Galway (H91 V1K8) on Sunday, August 16th, from 6pm to 8pm.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated for Helen on Monday, August 17th, on arrival at 11am at the Church of Christ the King, Salthill.
Tributes have poured in for Helen with many recalling her vibrant personality and sense of fun.
"She was a pleasure to know and be with," remarked one former colleague from the Vintners Federation of Ireland. "Her spontaneity and sense of enjoyment was contagious."
Another remarked: "Such a nice friendly lady [who] always brought great joy and energy when she entered a room."
Others recalled Helen greeting them with a "huge smile and a warm welcome" whenever they visited The Country Club.
Former TD and MEP Jim Higgins was among those to pay tribute, noting: "Helen had such an exuberant personality. She was so outgoing, so friendly, so popular with a lovely personality."
