GLENSIDE, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — From their first blind date, to their Irish dance school, to the pub in their basement, Frances and Bill Donahue have shared their love of Irish heritage for over 50 years.
Frances was born in Dublin, Ireland. Bill, whose father was from Derry, Ireland, was born and raised in Philadelphia.
They were set up on a date by family friends and later got married. 53 years later, they enjoy life with several children and grandchildren.
Frances founded the Cummins School of Irish Dance 25 years ago, harkening back to her childhood as a dancer in Ireland.
Bill is known to have been involved in several Irish committees throughout town, including the Delaware Valley Irish Hall of Fame. Their family as a whole was inducted in 2022.
The Donahues’ daughter, Noreen, accomplished her dream of creating a St. Patrick’s Day parade in Glenside last year. Musicians, dancers, and spectators made it a vibrant atmosphere.
This year, the Glenside St. Patrick’s Day Parade Association brought it back even better.
And as a cherry on top, they named Frances and Bill as co-grand marshals.
Watch the video above to see what their heritage means to them.
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