Gina O’Donnell the Bookshop Manager of Hodges Figgis has died after a brief illness.
Gina started in Hodges Figgis in 1980 initially as a cashier quickly rising to the position of floor manager on the ground floor where her skills interpersonally and wide knowledge of books developed the shop into the form it is now.
For many years she ran the Irish books sections in the shop developing a reputation in the trade of a bookseller of great commercial nous and flair. She had a great love of Irish Fiction especially William Trevor who she revered. She was universally respected within the trade for her professionalism and grace treating all in the trade with respect and fairness.
She was loved within the building by the staff for her understanding and was a mentor to many generations of booksellers that passed through these doors. Every bookseller was given her full attention and helped to develop their skills. She became Deputy Manager in 2010 and the following year was made General Manager.
In 2011 she was awarded the Bookseller of the Year where her citation read:
“She sets the tone for an exceptional team in an exceptional bookshop. Her knowledge and instinct for a good book are second to none. She is unfailingly professional, courteous and willing to help colleagues, customers and suppliers alike”.
She is survived by her sons Ben and Oran, daughter Zoe, grandchildren Zia and Molly, her mother Claire and brothers Peter and Mark.
She leaves a void that will never never be filled.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam uasal.
Liam Donnelly.
https://rip.ie/death-notice/gina-o-donnell-greystones-wicklow/424980
Due to restrictions on large gatherings, there will be a private family celebration of Gina’s life at Mount Jerome Crematorium on Friday, 5th June, at 4.30pm. The funeral cortège will depart from the family home at Heathervue, Greystones on Friday, 5th June, at 3.15pm. People can pay respects by lining Bellevue Road (Tesco Road, heading towards Tesco).
Please adhere to Social Distancing and be mindful of parking. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired can be made to the Irish Cancer Society. www.cancer.ie
