By Tommy Curran
STILL hale and hearty, independent and enjoying life to the full, much loved Nellie McGowan, Machaire Rabhartaigh, Gortahork marked her 100th birthday with some special celebrations last weekend.
Reaching the grand age of 100 is a wonderful achievement, but to do so while continuing to live independently, maintaining an active daily routine and keeping in regular contact with friends is truly special.
A daughter of the late Manus Gallagher and Hannah (née Doohan) of Derryreel, Falcarragh, Nellie was born in Greenock, Scotland on October 11, 1926. She was one of six children, two of whom died in infancy. Her sister Mary is resident in the Lakehouse Nursing Home in Portnablagh.
The family moved to Derryreel when Nellie was seven years old and she went to school in Murroe. The family lived for some time in Casey’s Dunfanaghy before moving to live in the Cottages, Horn Head, Dunfanaghy.
Bill and Derek Arnold of Arnold’s Hotel with Nellie. She spent 30 years working in this hotel.
Love came her way when she met Charlie McGowan of Machaire Rabhartaigh at a dance in Falcarragh Hall. They were married in November, 1969 and settled down in Machaire Rabhartaigh. But sadly their years together were cut short when Charlie passed away in May 1995, aged just 64. His loss was a difficult chapter in Nellie’s life, but she continued to face the years ahead with courage and determination.
Throughout her working life, she was known for her dedication and commitment. She spent 30 years working at Arnolds Hotel in Dunfanaghy where her long service was a testament to her strong work ethic. Those years brought her into contact with many people and formed an important part of her life in that locality.
Family and friendship remain at the heart of her life. Nellie’s cousin Marian Gallagher takes her shopping in Falcarragh every Friday, an outing that provides an opportunity to get the weekly necessities and have a bite to eat and enjoy a chat along the way.
Nellie has never smoked or consumed alcohol and she remains in remarkably good form, with a good memory and by her own account, no medical complaints.
Relative Michael Gallagher pictured with Nellie during her 100th birthday celebrations.
She enjoys the quieter pleasures of life, particularly knitting and crochet, hobbies that provide both enjoyment and a welcome way to occupy her hands.
Despite the passing of a century, she has lost none of her interest in the world around her or in people who matter to her. She also keeps in daily contact with friends by telephone, ensuring that distance or the passing of years never weaken those important connections.
Her home continues to be a welcoming place, with visitors calling regularly. Hospitality comes naturally to her and no visitor is allowed to leave without being served a cup of tea.
Nellie with her cousin Nellie Gallagher at Ostán Loch Altán on Saturday evening.
Nellie pictured with Fr Seán Ó Gallchóir and Fr Donnachadh Ó Baoill.
Birthday girl Nellie pictured with Séamus Ó Briain and his wife Moya, their sons Jamie, Kevin and Darragh, daughter Maria and their partners.
Faith also continues to play an important role in Nellie’s daily life. Although she may not be able to attend Mass in person, she watches Mass on line and on television, keeping close to her faith that has been a source of comfort and strength throughout her life.
Nellie McGowan pictured with her cousin Marian Gallagher and Séamus Ó Briain, nephew of her late husband.
To mark this extraordinary milestone, a thanksgiving Mass was celebrated by Fr Seán Ó Gallchoir and assisted by Fr Donnchadh Ó Baoill in the Church of Christ the King, Gortahork on Saturday evening.
The large attendance which included some 20 people travelling from Scotland was a fitting tribute to a woman whose life has touched so many people.
The celebrations continued later at Ostán Loch Altán, where more than 150 guests gathered to honour Nellie’s century and share in the joy of this very special occasion.
A group of relatives who travelled from Scotland to celebrate with Nellie McGowan. Photos: Tommy Curran