Chris Lalor (née conway) (1934-2021)

Chris Lalor (née Conway) was born and raised in Ballinacarra, Kilfenora, into a family steeped in traditional Irish music. A talented whistle player, she was part of the rich musical culture of North Clare, where music and dancing were woven into everyday life. Her brother, JJ Conway, was a well-known flute player with both the Kilfenora and Tulla Céilí Bands, and Chris shared that same deep-rooted connection to the music of her place.

Though she later made her home in Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny, where she raised her family, Chris never lost her love for traditional music and culture. A primary school teacher by profession, she brought joy and energy to her classroom, instilling a love of learning, creativity, and tradition in generations of children.

Chris had a special grá for Irish dancing, and was known for her lively spirit and deep appreciation of the dance halls and céilís she grew up with. She also had a great love for knitting, and her creativity carried through into everything she did — from music and teaching to making warm, thoughtful things by hand for family and friends. She and her husband raised seven children, and she was a proud grandmother to many.