RIP: Leitrim mourns the loss of a “remarkable” community woman

Tributes have been pouring in for a Leitrim woman who played a central role in her community, remembered warmly for her welcoming nature, her many contributions, and described as “a remarkable woman.”

Elizabeth Comiskey (née McMorrow), of Leckaun and formerly of Lissinagroagh, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, August 10.

Deeply devoted to her parish and the wider community, Elizabeth dedicated nearly fifty years of service to Newtownmanor and surrounding areas. 

For close to thirty years, she was a driving force behind the weekly parish bingo on Monday nights, and she also served on the board of management at St Mary’s National School in Leckaun.

A founder member and Chairperson of Newtownmanor ICA, Elizabeth worked tirelessly to promote and support rural women. 

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Even in her final months, she remained active as a Minister of the Eucharist and on parish committees, most recently helping to organise the bicentennial celebrations of the church.

Elizabeth was also a long-standing member of the Irish Farmers Association, serving on the county executive for Dromahair IFA and representing Leitrim on the Farm Family and Social Affairs Committee.

She was also a committee member of the Manorhamilton Agricultural Show for the past 25 years and most recently served as Chief Steward.

She will be profoundly missed by her husband, former Fine Gael senator Michael Comiskey; her sons Gary, Trevor, Damien, Rory, and Stephen; her 13 beloved grandchildren; her brothers, sisters, extended family, friends, and neighbours.

Tributes reflected her enduring kindness and community spirit. “I remember when she came to our area 50 years ago this year - she was young, hardworking and always helpful, a great community person,” one condolence noted. 

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Another read, “We had the privilege of knowing her as a wonderful neighbour and friend. Her passing will leave a huge void in so many lives.”

Elizabeth’s funeral took place on Tuesday, August 12, at The Church of Mary the Mother of God, Newtownmanor, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Her final journey was marked with guards of honour by staff of Our Lady’s Hospital (past and present), the IFA, the Manorhamilton Show, and members of Sligo-Leitrim Fine Gael. 

The Government was represented at the funeral by Ministers of State Hildegarde Naughton and Marian Harkin.

One condolence captured the depth of her loss, “My sincere sympathy on the death of your much loved wife and mother. I have many wonderful memories of her quiet kindness and hospitality. Be assured of my prayers at this difficult time. Remember that while you have lost a gem of a wife and mother, heaven has gained a jewel.”