The late Hazel Reid: a tribute from Buccaneers RFC

The death has occurred of Hazel Reid, who passed away peacefully at her residence on Sunday last. Hazel was a stalwart on the rugby club’s ladies committee for many decades and she loved the camaraderie there.

The Reid family has a lifetime association with Athlone RFC initially and currently Buccaneers RFC. The former clubhouse was located virtually on her Fernhill doorstep and her late husband Christy was President of the club in the 1985/86 season.

The family link continues with sons Austin and Eoin both involved, having played in the club’s colours for many seasons. Austin has been honoured as club president, while Eoin’s son Corey is a current member of the Buccaneers senior squad and he has represented Ireland at various levels including U-20. Daughters Aisling and Syra continue Hazel’s generous tradition of voluntary service on the club’s ladies committee.

A gracious and personable lady, Hazel was a highly capable driving force in building up Fernhill Garden Centre from very humble beginnings to the hugely impressive facility that now stands there. It's a fine legacy for a proud Athlonian who had many interests, including the annual Daffodil Day charity fund-raiser.

Her loss will be greatest of course to her family, and the committee and members of Buccaneers RFC extend heartfelt sympathy to Austin, Eoin, Aisling and Syra, their spouses and children, and the wider Reid family and friends. May the Lord grant Hazel eternal rest.

Hazel died peacefully surrounded by her loving family at her residence on February 21st. She was predeceased by her husband Christy, brother Michael and sisters Moira McGuirk (Galway) and Patricia Agnew (Dublin). Hazel is deeply regretted and sadly missed by sons Austin & Eoin, daughters Aisling & Syra, daughters-in-law Rosie & Ann, sons-in-law Lee & Sean, sister-in-law Mary Hogan, grandchildren, Rowena, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and her many friends.

In an effort to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and in respect to public health guidelines, there will be no public wake as Hazel’s funeral and burial will be celebrated privately by her family (limited to ten persons).

But there will be an opportunity for Buccaneers club members to join neighbours and friends in paying their respects as Hazel’s funeral cortege leaves her late residence tomorrow (Tuesday), passing Dubarry Park to arrive for Requiem Mass in Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Coosan at 12.30pm. A socially distanced guard of honour outside the club will be held and members are asked to wear masks and observe the 5km travel limit guideline.

Please click this link to view Hazel’s Requiem Mass via webcam facilities. Burial afterwards in Cornamagh Cemetery. House strictly private please. Family flowers only. Donations, if desired to South Westmeath Hospice.

May Hazel rest in peace.