Caherconlish Man Celebrates 100th Birthday: A Century of Life, laughter, and Limerick GAA
christy O’Connell of Caherconlish, Ireland, recently marked a remarkable milestone: his 100th birthday. This centenarian’s secret to a long and fulfilling life? A blend of hard work, homegrown goodness, and a touch of Irish cheer, as he himself would attest.
Mr. O’Connell,who spent his life working hard and enjoying the simple pleasures,credits his longevity to several factors. “He puts his great age down to growing his own vegetables, free-range eggs, hard work and a few pints at the weekend,” shared his son, Ger. This simple recipe for a long life, coupled with a loving family, has clearly served him well.
His son, Ger, described his father’s remarkable memory and health.”He had a great day. He enjoyed it a lot. He cried, he laughed, he talked and traced back the years. His memory is 100% and he’s very healthy. He could tell you some stories,” Ger recounted, highlighting the vibrant festivity.
The celebration was held at St.Michael’s Nursing Home in Caherconlish,where Christy resides. Ger expressed gratitude to the nursing home staff and the South liberties GAA club for their contributions to the memorable event.The GAA, a cornerstone of Irish culture, holds a special place in Christy’s heart. “He was a lifelong GAA member,” noted local historian Pat Hourigan, adding, “He won three east Limerick Junior medals, one Limerick Junior title in 1946 and a minor medal from 1944.” Hourigan further highlighted Christy’s role as a selector with the Caherline hurling club during their historic 1971 victory.
Christy’s life story is one of resilience and community. He recalls the wartime years, when his family, like many others, focused on tillage farming. He even remembers the army’s occupation of ballinagarde House during that period. His remarkable health is a testament to his lifestyle, as Ger noted, “He was hardly sick a day in his life and never in hospital. He was kind of a self-diagnosis and self-cure man – white lemonade and an anadin if he was sick – and drive on.”
Beyond his personal achievements, Christy’s enduring legacy is his family. He and his late wife, Bridie, were married for over 68 years, raising five children: Mike, Jim, Mary, Ger, and Noel. Sadly, mike passed away in 2023, six months before his mother.Christy’s family extends to numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a testament to a life well-lived.
Christy’s story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the importance of family, community, and the simple joys of life. His century of life is a celebration not just of his own resilience, but also of the enduring spirit of the Irish people.
