2023-24 Nano O'Malley McMahon (No 67)

Chieftain Nano with her husband Pat and son Eddie

Nano O'Malley McMahon was born in 1969 in Dromalty, Cappamore, County Limerick, one of the 5 children of Eamonn and Nodie (née Campbell) O'Malley in the home her father inherited from his father Jack O'Malley in 1965. Jack was a respected farmer and former Limerick County Councillor.

Her siblings are Kitty Sheehan, Jack O'Malley, Alice O'Malley and Eamonn O'Malley.

Her father Eamonn O'Malley was one of five brothers — Denis, Seán, Diarmuid and Paddy. Paddy is the last surviving brother and is well known in Limerick, having run a pharmacy in the city for over 40 years. The family has a long tradition of hard work, public service and commitment to community.

Nano holds a Bachelor of Education degree and a postgraduate qualification in Special Education. She worked as a primary school teacher for over 30  years in Co Limerick and then became a Special Educational Needs Coordinator with the National Council for Special Education, supporting 46 schools across County Clare and promoting inclusive education for children and young people.

She married Pat McMahon, originally from Cratloe, County Clare and they have three children: Seán, Eddie and Paddy. The McMahon family are known for their strong roots and longevity — her father-in-law was 97 years old in 2026.

Outside of work, she enjoys reading and has been a member of a book club for nearly two decades. She is also involved with Tipperary County Tennis Club, where she serves on the committee. Family, community, education and heritage remain central to her life. She values the importance of preserving family history and shared ancestry for future generations and is proud of her background and the legacy of those who came before her.

She was elected the 67th Chieftain of the O'Malley Clan in 2023 and held her Gathering in Cappamore and Limerick city in 2024.