Marie was welcomed into this world on Monday, April 14th, 1958. Marie was born into The Blackburne family. Marie was Joe and Sarah’s second born child, and only daughter. Sarah described Marie as ‘the best baby ever, born with a head of black hair.’

Marie grew up in Dublin’s inner city, living in Inisfallon Parade, Drumcondra before moving to St. Ignatius Avenue, Drumcondra in 1960. The Blackburne family moved to Cabra in 1970. Her brother, Paul, described her as a practical joker as a child, with her Dad, Joe, on the receiving end of these pranks.

Marie attended St. Dominic’s College, Cabra. Here she met her best friend, Kathleen. They went on to share many adventures together in life. One of Marie’s not so fond memories was their stint working in a sewing factory. It developed into a life long dislike towards sewing!

Another part time Summer job saw Marie working in Glasnevin Industrial Estate placing ‘Made in Ireland’ stickers onto Cadbury Curly Wurly bars. She was well and truly sick of Curly Wurlys after a Summer spent eating the melting and broken ones!

Fast forward and Marie applied for a job in Glen Abbey after her leaving cert. Here she met Brian, and a life together awaited them.

Marie moved to Prosperous, Co. Kildare with Brian and there they raised their own family. Marie became a much loved neighbour and friend. Her final house move brought her to her beloved home in Loughanure, Clane. Marie continued to work alongside Brian right through to retirement.

Marie loved the countryside. Although I'm sure she first had her doubts when she first moved to the sticks in her early twenties!!

She absolutely loved nature and animals. She rescued many cats along the way! And had many beloved pets through the years.

She was so creative and talented. She knitted jumpers and cardigans. She created beautiful embroidery artworks. She did flower arranging. She dried and pressed flowers. She cooked and baked. She was fit and loved walking and hiking. She loved her gardening. She loved reading. She was smart, kind, loyal, loving and incredibly generous. She adored children and they adored her right back. She loved to sing and dance. She loved all genres of music from pop to classical. She loved shoes and handbags. She put others first and family and friends were the most important part of her life. She was one in a million and I hope this page can shine a light on all of the above.