Catherine Bernadette Troy

February 9, 1943 - February 21, 2022 Catherine Bernadette Troy (nee O'Neill), passed away on February 21, 2022. Bernadette was born in Kenmare, County Kerry, Ireland. She was on of eight children. Bernadette emigrated to America where she worked as a secretary at Riggs Bank in Washington, DC. It was at an Irish Club dinner dance where she met the love of her life, Pat Troy, from County Offaly. Dad said she was beautiful, but wondered if she could dance. He waltzed her around that marquee hall. Devoted for 53 years, their love was one for the ages. Together, they became the proprietors of two prominent businesses: The Irish Walk and Ireland's Own Restaurant and Pub in Alexandria, VA. Mom never left Ireland, making annual trips home. She was very involved in two Irish organizations: The Rose of Tralee and Project Children. She was the best mother we could ever ask for and an amazing Granny. Dad referred to mom as the wind beneath his wings. Family meant everything to mom. She was a wife and mother first; taking us to school, tutoring, Cub Scouts, ball practice, and Irish feiseanna. Mom wasn't just great as a waltzer. She enjoyed partaking in Irish set dances, particularly The Siege of Ennis and the Stack of Barley. A devout Catholic, we went to church every Sunday as a family and volunteered to raise funds for Christ House. Mom loved to garden. Her fence was adorned in Canna plants and a Peace Rose that she thought would never bloom. Everyone would tell you that they loved Bernie's roast chicken and mashed potatoes. Mom loved the open road. Memorial Day weekends setting up shop at the Irish Festival in the Catskill Mountains to driving across country to see her sister. We were so lucky to be part of the adventure with her. She had a comedic side. Consider yourself lucky if you witnessed it. One thing she never lost was her determination. She was fiercely independent. Predeceased by her husband Pat; Bernadette is survived by her children Patrick Troy (Dow), Kathleen Molloy (Alan), and her granddaughters, Mairead and Reyha. Friends and relatives may visit on March 3, from 5-7pm at Demaine Funeral Home. A mass of Christian burial will be elaborated on March 4 at 3pm at The Basilica of St. Mary, 310 South Royal St., Alexandria, VA 22314. Internment to follow at St. Mary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth and Families, 4901 Eastern Ave. NE Hyattsville, MD 20782. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DemaineFuneralHomes.com for the Troy family.