Barrett, Kitty
September 09, 2009In her 96th year Kitty passed away on Wednesday, August 26, in the loving care of Sr Brid, nurses and carers of Catherine McAuley Home, Balloonagh, Tralee. Born Frances Mary Barrett in Belmont House, Ballyard, Tralee she was known throughout her life to everybody as Kitty.
Her late husband Joe was recognised as one of the greatest players ever to don the green and gold of Kerry. He played with Kerry from 1924 to 1932, winning six All-Ireland medals and captained them to victory in 1929 and 1932, one of only eight men to twice lift the Sam Maguire.
Joe relinquished the captaincy of the team to Con Brosnan in 1931, even though they had been arch enemies in the Civil War. This magnanimous gesture by Barrett denied him the honour of becoming the only man ever to captain three All-Ireland winning teams. In taking this step, Joe helped in no small way to heal the deep wounds which the Civil War had left among the people of Kerry.
As a young woman Kitty was very active and kept fit by swimming at Fenit and playing golf at Tralee Golf Club in Mounthawk. It was while swimming from the Slip to Sammy's Rock on a cold day in May that Kitty struck up conversation with Joe who happened to be walking on the shoreline. Truth be known they both were keen on each other and striking up the conversation seemed the perfect way to start. Kitty ushered Joe to be on his way as she was getting cold in the water. Joe, ever the gentleman did as she wished, but not before cutting his finger with a penknife, which of course would require medical attention.
After Kitty had finished dressing herself, Joe waited a safe distance and showed her the injured finger. Kitty, a nurse by profession, took Joe to the family home and proceeded to treat the unfortunate cut, much to Joe's delight. Needing no second introduction to Kitty's family, it was clear that their lives would be intertwined there-after.
They were married in Churchill Church in October 1935 and had four children - Tim, a trade union official who was killed in accident in 1973; John, noted sports journalist with The Kerryman, The Irish Press and The Irish Post, died in 1995; Jo Jo, footballer and journalist who wrote "In the name of the game" and daughter Fran (Frances).
Joe's untimely death in 1952 left Kitty a young widow with four children to care for in a tough economic climate. Her strong Catholic faith helped her to cope with Joe's death and the uncertain future which lay ahead.
She kept herself active playing badminton and as a member of the Tralee Light Opera Society partook in many of their productions, playing the piano. Caring for her children and grandchildren also gave her a great sense of purpose in life.
She held staunch Republican views and with a sharp mind, could debate the issues of the day with anyone who came to visit her. With a lifelong interest in politics and news she kept in touch with the outside world while listening to Pat Kenny and Joe Duffy on the radio.
Kitty's rosary beads was always in her hand while saying her daily prayers and offering up devotions to Our Lady and St Padre Pio. The removal of Kitty's remains took place from McElligott's Funeral Home on Friday, August 28 to the Church of the Purification, Churchill. Requiem Mass was offered on Saturday morning for the happy repose of her soul, following which interment took place in Old Rath Cemetery.
Kitty is deeply mourned by her son Jo Jo, daughter Fran, 18 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren, daughters-in-law Joan and Mary, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.
Kitty Barrett leaves a legacy and a myriad of wonderful memories which will be cherished by all whose lives she touched.
Suaimhneas siorrai da hanam dillis.
- The Kerryman, September 9, 2009 Tweet
