A wave of grief has swept through a West Belfast community following the deaths of a much-loved mother and her daughter within days of each other. Annmarie McCann and her daughter, Bridin McCann, both died peacefully in hospital, surrounded by their family, leaving behind a circle of relatives, friends and neighbours who have described them as kind, devoted and deeply loved.
Annmarie, who was a central figure in her family and community, passed away on December 4, 2025. Just a few days earlier, on November 30, Bridin, a mother of two and cherished daughter, died under similar circumstances. Their deaths have left family members and those who knew them struggling to come to terms with such a profound double loss in such a short space of time.
According to a family notice, Annmarie was the beloved wife of Patsy McCann and a devoted mother to her surviving children Francine, Patrick and Carleen, as well as the late Bridin. She was also described as an adored grandmother to Stephen, Ben, Caoimhe, Molly, Phelim and Conall, and a great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend to many. Her passing has deeply affected several generations of the McCann family, who relied on her love, guidance and strength over the years.
Bridin, who died days before her mother, was remembered as a caring and devoted mum to her two children, Caoimhe and Conall. She was also a loving sister to Francine, Patrick and Carleen, and an aunt, cousin and friend whose warmth touched the lives of many. Tributes shared by those who knew her highlighted her commitment to her family, her kindness, and her unwavering support for those around her.
The family announced that both Annmarie and Bridin would be laid to rest following a joint funeral service. Their remains will leave the family home on Monday, December 8 at 9:30am for a 10:00am Requiem Mass at the Church of the Nativity in West Belfast. After the mass, they will be buried together at Milltown Cemetery. Friends, neighbours and community members are expected to line the route and attend the service to pay their final respects.
While detailed medical causes of death have not been publicly disclosed, the family confirmed that both women passed away peacefully and with loved ones at their side. In a region where communities are closely connected, the news spread quickly, prompting an outpouring of sympathy and support, both in person and across social media platforms.
Many have taken to online spaces to express their condolences, offering messages of love, prayer and remembrance. One mourner wrote that there were “no words” to express the pain felt for the family, adding prayers for strength and comfort. Another said they hoped that the “love and memories of Annmarie and Bridin would bring peace in the difficult days ahead,” while others sent messages simply wishing that the mother and daughter would “rest in heavenly peace together.”
Local organisations have also paid tribute. St Gall GAC, where members of the McCann family have been actively involved, issued a heartfelt statement acknowledging the impact of the loss. The club highlighted Annmarie’s role as the mother of Carleen, a dedicated Gaelic4Mothers player, and Bridin’s role as an aunt and granny to several underage club members. The statement extended sympathy to the entire McCann family circle and assured them of the club’s prayers and support during this painful time.
In West Belfast, where family ties and community spirit run deep, the loss of Annmarie and Bridin has resonated far beyond their immediate relatives. Neighbours described Annmarie as a familiar, comforting presence who was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement. Bridin, too, was remembered as a devoted parent who put her children at the heart of everything she did.
In the coming days, as the family prepares for the joint funeral and burial, they will be supported by relatives, friends, and the wider community that has been touched by their lives. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Mallon Brothers Funeral Directors on the Falls Road, who have confirmed that all enquiries and details regarding attendance will be managed through their office.
Source:Africa Publicity
