A Community Mourns the Loss of a Cherished Soul: Bride Tolan (née Mannion)
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the peaceful passing of Bride Tolan, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, at Moyridge Nursing Home in Ballina. Formerly of Crossmolina, Co. Mayo, and Dunmore, Co. Galway, Bride’s legacy of kindness and warmth will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew her. But here’s where it gets truly heartwarming—her life was a testament to love and community, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories that continue to inspire.
Bride, the devoted mother of Conor, Kieran, and Darragh, will be deeply missed by her sons, daughters-in-law Michelle, Niamh, and Jill, and her adoring grandchildren: Fionnán, Kate, Róisín, Max, Ava, Jake, and Donnacha. Her siblings, Celia and Tom, along with her in-laws, nephews, nieces, relatives, and a circle of wonderful friends and neighbors, mourn her loss. And this is the part most people miss—her involvement in the Moy Singers and Cathedral Choir not only enriched her life but also left an indelible mark on the community’s musical heritage.
Rest in Peace, Bride.
For those wishing to pay their respects, Bride will be reposing at McGowan’s Funeral Home in Ballina (F26 V274) on Friday evening from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral will take place at St. Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina, on Saturday morning, with a Requiem Mass at 11 AM, followed by a cremation service at McGowan’s Crematorium in Collooney, Co. Sligo (F91 AKW5). But here’s where it gets controversial—in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Western Alzheimer’s, a cause close to Bride’s heart. Donations can be made via McGowan’s Funeral Home or online at westernalzheimers.ie/how-to-donate. The Funeral Mass will also be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person at www.ballinaparish.org.
Published On: December 18th, 2025
The outpouring of condolences from the community is a testament to Bride’s impact. From Ann Marie Murphy, who remembered her as a ‘lovely lady’ from their choir days, to Greta and Katya Harrison, who envisioned her soul being welcomed by ‘choirs of angels,’ each tribute paints a picture of a woman whose grace and kindness knew no bounds. But here’s a thought-provoking question—how do we ensure that the legacies of such remarkable individuals continue to inspire future generations? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
As we reflect on Bride’s life, let us remember her not just for the roles she played—mother, sister, friend—but for the love and light she brought into the world. May her gentle soul rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.
