22/03/2026
'I've lived a life that's full. I've travelled each and every highway, and more, much more than this, I did it my way'
These words sum up our dear friend Rita (Nagle) Daly perfectly. The news of her passing brought much sadness to everyone in the C.J.Kickham Brass & Reed Band. Rita's association with the Band goes back to her youth when her late father, Michael Nagle, took up the baton as Bandmaster in 1935 and remained as such until 1948. Rita often regaled us with stories about the band rehearsals which took place in their home.The strains of beautiful band music dancing around the house must have been an enviable treat for the Nagle family.
The tradition was carried on by Rita's own children, Charlotte and Martin and indeed into the next generation again when Rita's grandchildren, Charlotte's boys, Mark, John and Michael joined the band. Her daughter Yvonne has also been a dedicated committee member for many years.
Charlotte remains a talented and dedicated member to this day and Rita remained loyal to the Band to the very end. We were often present to play a few tunes for her from time to time over the years for various events in her life, both happy and sad, and we were honoured to surprise her at her 90th Birthday party last year.
Rita has left a wonderful legacy to the town. Her bright smile, her laughter, her stories and the rapport she had with everyone of all age groups will be sorely missed.
She has departed from this life, but is now reunited with her beloved Mossy, and her children who predeceased her, most recently her daughter and best buddy Christine. She is back with all of her siblings, her relatives and her many friends whom she never forgot and always spoke fondly about.
Rest in peace dear Rita, you have certainly earned a comfortable bed in Heaven. Our world is a lesser place without you and your parting leaves a huge void in the lives of all who knew and loved you. Say hello to all the 'Old Comrades' for us ๐ถ ๐ต โค๏ธ