Castlemartyr, County Cork, is mourning the sudden loss of Mary Verling-Clifford, who passed away peacefully at her home on March 17th, 2026, surrounded by family. The death of the beloved wife, mother, and grandmother has prompted an outpouring of condolences from the local community and beyond. Mrs. Verling-Clifford, formerly of Church Street, Cobh, was a well-known and respected figure in the area, remembered for her warmth and dedication to her family and friends. Details regarding her passing were first reported on March 19th, 2026, and have been widely shared as the community comes to terms with the loss.
Mary (née Verling) leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her sons, Victor and Damien, her daughter Aimée, and her son Jonathan. She was predeceased by her husband, John, and her son, Matthew, as well as her parents, Maura and Patrick Verling, with her mother Maura having recently passed away. She is also survived by nine grandchildren – Dion, Jack, Finn, Caitlín, Aoife, Úna, Ella, Max, and Leo – who brought immense joy to her life. The family’s grief is compounded by these recent losses, highlighting the profound impact of Mary’s presence in their lives.
A Life Remembered in Castlemartyr and Cobh
Born and raised in Cobh, Mary Verling-Clifford later made her home in Castlemartyr, becoming an integral part of both communities. She will be fondly remembered by her daughters-in-law, Catherine and Carina, her son-in-law Kenneth, and Victor’s partner Anna. Her brother Paul, sister Patricia, and a wide circle of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews also mourn her passing. The family has expressed gratitude for the support received from neighbours and friends during this difficult time.
Beyond her immediate family, Mary Verling-Clifford was a dedicated member of the local community. She was fondly remembered by former colleagues and friends at Owenacurra Day Care Centre in Midleton, where she made a significant contribution to the lives of others. Her commitment to service and her compassionate nature left a lasting impression on those who knew her. The centre has acknowledged her dedication and the positive impact she had on the individuals she served.
Funeral Arrangements and Remembrance
The family has announced that Mary will repose at her home on Main Street, Castlemartyr (P25 H2C4) on Friday, March 20th, from 5pm to 7pm, offering an opportunity for friends and neighbours to pay their respects. rip.ie provides further details regarding the arrangements. On Saturday, March 21st, at 1:45pm, Mary’s funeral cortege will depart from the family home, pausing at their family farm on Killeagh Road before proceeding to the Island Crematorium for a private service.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), a charity dedicated to saving lives at sea. Donations can be made online through the RNLI website. This request reflects Mary’s compassionate spirit and her desire to support causes that benefit others. The family has also expressed their sincere gratitude to the First Responders, the Ambulance Service, and the Gardaí for their swift and compassionate care.
Messages of comfort and condolences can be expressed through the online condolences link provided on rip.ie, offering a space for those who knew and loved Mary to share their memories and support the family during this time of grief. The outpouring of support demonstrates the profound impact Mary had on the lives of so many.
The passing of Mary Verling-Clifford marks a significant loss for the communities of Castlemartyr and Cobh. As the family prepares for the funeral service, the community continues to offer its support and condolences, remembering a life lived with love, compassion, and dedication. The family will continue to receive support from friends and neighbours as they navigate this difficult time, and the memory of Mary Verling-Clifford will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
The family has requested privacy during this period of mourning. Further updates regarding memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available. Those wishing to express their sympathy are encouraged to utilize the online condolences link provided on rip.ie.
