Michael D Higgins among mourners at service for Galway riding school owner

Alexandra Donnelly Nash from Corrandulla died last Saturday following a short and sudden illness. A memorial service took place at the Galway United Methodist Presbyterian Church at Victoria Place.

Ms Donnelly Nash was the owner of Clonboo Riding School, which closed in August due to the onset of her illness. She had worked in the equine industry for 42 years.

Tributes to the riding instructor and animal lover remembered her as a “kind, caring person” and patient teacher, who was incredibly dedicated to her horses, dogs, and many rescue animals.

“I have such fond memories of my horse riding lessons with her. She was always so kind, patient and encouraging,” one former student wrote.

“So many happy childhood memories of days spent at the riding school,” said another. “[She’s] reunited now with her beautiful horses and dogs over the rainbow bridge.”

“We’ll always remember her passion for animals and the remarkable work she did rescuing so many of them,” added another mourner.

“I have fond memories of my years at her horse riding school,” recalled another former student. “She taught with patience and passion, adored her animals, and filled the place with her infectious laugh.”

Another tribute remarked that Ms Donnelly Nash had “an open door and open heart” to children with additional needs at her riding school. “She was extremely kind and considerate to my son over the last few years and gave him the opportunity to enjoy horse riding. We will miss her deeply,” they added.

Mr Higgins attended the memorial service on Wednesday with his wife Sabina. Ms Donnelly Nash’s mother, Josephine, worked as parliamentary secretary to the former Galway West TD. She died in 2018.

The memorial service was followed by a private cremation, and memorial donations to the Donkey Sanctuary were gratefully accepted in memory of Ms Donnelly Nash.