Julia Rooney, 1934 – 2025 a Tribute

This past year has seen the loss of an integral figure in the history and preservation of Willmount Cemetery. Julia Rooney played a key role in all aspects of the conservation of Willmount Cemetery. Born in 1934 to John Rooney and Sabina Cannon in Cahercrin, Julia had a deep rooted love for the surrounding area. She retained a wealth of knowledge about the people and events that shaped this community and could recall days from her youth with ease.

Julia took a keen interest in Willmount Cemetery as it was the final resting place of her family for generations. She was instrumental in the committee and kept a keen eye on the work being done. She would often take long walks from her home in Cahercrin down the winding road and on towards the graveyard.

When the research for this book began, Julia was elated that the history of the cemetery was to be recorded. Many an evening was spent in Rooney’s kitchen, throwing names at Julia to see what information she had. When given a name, Julia took off and she would tell you who they belonged to and any peculiar stories she remembered hearing. Julia had a unique wit about her and could make any story, however dull and mundane, lively and enjoyable. She had stories of fairies and fights, wars and troubles, love and loss, and everything in between.

Julia made her final trip to Willmount on the 11th of December 2024. That day she planted a tree in honour of those buried in the cemetery, especially those who died as a result of the famine. Julia was honoured to plant the tree and was happy to face the harsh weather to honour those gone before her.

Julia passed away peacefully on the 14th of March 2025 at her home in Cahercrin surrounded by her brother Sean, family and neighbours. The void that Julia left behind after her death is felt immensely by all that knew her, especially those involved with the graveyard. A cloud was cast over Cahercrin and the surrounding areas. Therefore it is necessary that we remember Julia for her brilliant mind, warm presence and tender appreciation for the community around her. Her impact on the cemetery will be everlasting and her legacy will live on for years to come. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis!

Daire Enright – Wilmount Genealogy

See also: School in the Canton Hall