Family, friends and musicians gathered in Armagh to remember Eithne Vallely, the much-loved traditional musician and teacher who died aged 81 after being struck by a lorry.
Her funeral took place at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh, on Tuesday, 25 August, after her death the previous Friday. The PSNI said the collision happened in the Portadown Road area at about 8.20am. Emergency services attended, but Mrs Vallely was pronounced dead a short time later.
Her coffin was brought from the cathedral as mourners paid tribute to a woman whose influence reached generations of children, musicians and teachers. She was buried at St Patrick’s Cemetery.
A life remembered through music and family
Father Barry Matthews told mourners they had gathered with “hearts that are heavy” following a death described as “sudden and tragic”. He said Mrs Vallely had lived a life of humble service and had never been boastful.
“We give thanks for her extraordinary life, the remarkable legacy that she leaves behind, and the blessing she was to so many,” Fr Matthews said.
The funeral Mass reflected both her musical career and her family life. Items presented included the tutor book she used to teach Irish music, a fiddle, a photograph of her Donegal ancestors, a family photo book and a jersey from Armagh Athletic Club.
Mrs Vallely was also remembered for her practical creativity. Her apple crumbles and apple tarts were described as “legendary”, while tributes highlighted her skill as a quilter and knitter. She made a Carrickmacross lace veil for her daughter’s First Holy Communion.
Founding Armagh Pipers Club
Born in Lifford, County Donegal, on 17 May 1945, Eithne Vallely attended Falcarragh Boarding School and studied Celtic studies at University College Dublin.
She first met her husband, Brian, while she was in Armagh with Dublin Pipers Club. The couple married in 1969 and shared a passion for music that later helped shape the cultural life of the city.
Together they established Armagh Pipers Club, which Fr Matthews said brought “friendship, tradition and community” to Armagh. The club gave generations the opportunity to explore heritage, identity and their place within a living tradition.
He said Mrs Vallely had encouraged and inspired generations of children and young musicians, with many of those she taught now working as teachers themselves.
“Her contribution may have been expressed quietly, but her influence is profound. She leaves an extraordinary legacy,” he said.
A further tribute from Fr Dermot McNiece described Mrs Vallely as someone who searched for truth and whose ideals for a better place inspired her teaching. He urged mourners to build on the legacy she had created.
