Waterford woman celebrates her 100th with family and friends

A very popular woman from County Waterford celebrated her 100th birthday recently in the company of family and friends, including her sister, Kitty.

Hannah Hanrahan, from Doon, Ballinamult, was joined in her milestone birthday celebration by fellow residents at Dunabbey House, Dungarvan. 

The special occasion was also marked by the presence of Minister Mary Butler TD, who presented Hannah with a letter of congratulations and a cheque from the President of Ireland. Hannah was born on January 24th, 1926, in Glenane, Kilbrien. One of seven children born to Michael and Ellen Power, her one surviving sibling Kitty, was also present to celebrate Hannah’s remarkable milestone. 

Over the past 100 years, Hannah has witnessed enormous change, living through a century of social, cultural and technological transformation.

At her birthday party she spoke fondly of her happy youth in Kilbrien, recalling time spent with family and friends, as well as evenings enjoyed at dances and plays. 

It was at one such dance, held at the Halfway House in Ballymacarbry, that Hannah met her future husband, John Hanrahan of Ballinamult. 

Hannah and John were married in 1957 and together raised four daughters, Josephine, Eileen, Teresa and Mairead. 

Hannah was an active member of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association and was widely known as a wonderful baker. 

In 2017, she and John celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, however, sadly John passed away in 2018. 

Hannah was formerly a resident of the Padre Pio Nursing Home in Cappoquin and transferred to Dunabbey House last year. 

A lady of deep faith, Hannah looks forward to weekly Mass and takes part in the daily Rosary at Dunabbey. 

Everyone in the community wished her well on her birthday and also wished her continued great health and happiness.