The death has occurred of Wally Ryan (née Maher) of The Anchor, John Street, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, who passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
Wally was the beloved wife of the late Brendan and a much-loved and deeply respected member of the Cashel community.
She will be sadly missed by her loving daughter Tula, sons Mick and Laurence, son-in-law Sean, daughters-in-law Ide and Fon, and her cherished grandchildren Adam, Ruby and Sarah.
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She is also fondly remembered by her sisters Nicky, Claire and Kathy, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Reposing will take place at her residence on Sunday evening from 4pm to 7pm. Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Monday at 12 noon in St. John the Baptist Church, Cashel, and may be viewed live via the Cashel Parish webcam.
Burial will take place afterwards in St. John’s Cathedral Cemetery, John Street.
Condolences
Since news of Wally’s passing, many heartfelt tributes have been paid, reflecting her warmth, kindness and deep commitment to family and community life.
Messages of condolence speak of fond memories of Wally’s hospitality, her welcoming nature, and her ever-present smile. She is remembered as a woman who made everyone feel at home and whose generosity of spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
One person wrote: “My deepest sympathy to Tula, Sean, Adam, Ruby, Mick, Laurence and their families on the sudden passing of Wally. I was always so warmly welcomed at Ashmore House and have many fond memories of staying with Wally and Brendan. Thinking of you all at this very sad time.”
Another message described Wally as “always up for a chat, a lovely lady with a permanent smile,” adding, “Deepest sympathy to Tula, Mick, Laurence, extended family and many friends. May your gentle soul rest in eternal peace with your beloved Brendan.”
Fond memories of time spent in the family home were echoed by others, with one condolence reading: “Devastated with the news of your dear mam’s passing. I’ll cherish the lovely memories of many a weekend spent at Ashmore House. Wally will be dearly missed. Condolences to you all and may Wally rest in eternal peace.”
Another tribute spoke of the kindness shown by Wally and her late husband to so many: “Wally and Brendan were so kind to me during my time in Cashel and were such lovely and hardworking people. I hope they are reunited in their eternal home,” while extending sympathies to Tula, Mick, Laurence, Wally’s grandchildren and her sisters Nicky, Claire and Kathy.
A particularly poignant message recalled Wally’s pride in her family, stating: “I remember her waving ye off from John Street soon after your Dad passed, the pride in her face was so bright. It was so obvious ye were a very close family. Your Mam and Dad are happy together now.”
Public representative Michael Murphy TD extended his sympathies, describing Wally as “a lady of exceptional character traits” and “a real positive force within her community”, noting her long-standing involvement in Fine Gael and the esteem in which she was held.
Cashel Fine Gael also paid tribute, acknowledging Wally’s dedication and service as a valued member of the organisation, while extending condolences to the Ryan and Maher families.
Further tributes came from the Cashel St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, where Wally served for many years as Treasurer.
The committee described her as deeply valued, praising her dedication, warmth and commitment, and noting that her contribution to the parade and the wider community will always be remembered.
Wally Ryan’s passing is deeply felt throughout Cashel and beyond. She will be remembered with great affection as a devoted mother and grandmother, a loyal friend, and a woman who gave so generously of her time and energy to her community.
May She Rest In Peace.
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