The death took place peacefully at
Millcroft Nursing Home on Tuesday,
February 24, 2004, of Mrs. Violet
Crozier, wife of the late William
Crozier, Killynoogan, Kesh.Violet, born on November 6, 1912, was the youngest daughter of
the late Edward (Eddie) and Margaret McBrien, Mill Street,
Pettigo.
In January 1936 she married William Crozier and they made
their home at Aghalaan, Kesh, later moving to No. 4 Killynoogan,
Kesh in 1968. Shortly afterwards William died in February 1970
leaving Violet a widow for 34 years. William had been in
declining health for 17 years and Violet took great care of him
until he died.
Violet was a caring, generous person who dedicated her life to
her family. She always took a great interest in her grandchildren
and great-grandchildren.
For many years Violet was a familiar figure walking the short
distance into Pettigo every morning, to shop for herself and for
her neighbours. On the way home she always visited her sister
Annie, who lived two doors from her at Killynoogan, for her cup of
tea and a chat.
She was a skilled Aran knitter, taking great pride in her work
which was in great demand by relatives in America. She loved
dogs and had a black sheepdog for many years.
Alzheimer’s took much away from her, her language, her sense
of identity, her sense of place and family, but it did not fully
diminish her love of music. Her foot would still tap and her head
nod to the rhythm whenever music was played. ‘Harvest Home’
was her favourite tune when Willie played the melodeon many
years ago.
Violet lived at Killynoogan, with her son Peter, until 22 months
ago when she became a resident in Millcroft Nursing Home,
where she received excellent care.
There was a large attendance at her funeral Mass in St. Mary’s
Church, Pettigo. Despite the snow, many people travelled long
distances to be there.
The funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr. Duffy and Fr. Pat
McHugh assisted at the graveside. Vincie Carr and Eleanor
McGrath provided the music. The hymns were “Be not afraid” and
“The old rugged cross.” The gifts were carried to the altar by her
son Brendan, his wife Marie and two great-grandchildren Jamie
and Savannagh. Prayers and a reflection were read by her
grandchildren Deirdre, Fiona, Ciara and David. Burial took place
in the adjoining graveyard.
Violet is survived by her sons Pat, Birmingham; Joseph, Belfast;
Peter, Pettigo; Brendan, Monaghan; Dessie, Irvinestown and her
daughter Mrs. May Morris, Enniskillen.
Violet also leaves 21 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by twin daughters Margaret and Mary who
died as infants.
The funeral arrangements were carried out by Pat Britton,
Donegal.