The Finnesey, McLaughlin story

Cork, Ireland to Texas, USA · After the famine, late 1800’s, early 1900’s

The Irish runs deep in my family story, especially on my father’s side, and like many good Irish tales it comes with a little romance, a little rebellion, and a journey across the ocean.

My grandmother was Katheryn Alexandra Finnesey, the daughter of my great-grandparents Wallace Finnesey and Catherine McLaughlin. Family tradition says the Finneseys came from County Cork, and the story handed down through the generations is that my great-great-grandfather, Jas Finnesey, was sent packing from Ireland for being a scoundrel. In those days that could mean something as simple and scandalous as a child on the way before a wedding. Apparently the Finneseys were never ones to do things the quiet, proper way.

On the other side of my father’s family, my great-grandfather Joseph Bowles (family oral history is that they were English from Derry), fell in love with an Irish woman named Anna. The match did not sit well with either family. Rather than give up on each other, they did what so many bold couples of that era did. They left everything behind, crossed the Atlantic, and began a new life in America, arriving through Ellis Island.
So my roots are a blend of Irish spirit, a little stubbornness and the kind of courage it took to leave the old world behind for a new one. Like many Irish families, our story is part legend, part history, and entirely full of character!

I am a member of the Harp & Shamrock Society of Texas, an organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the rich heritage, history, and traditions of the Irish people. As our nation commemorates America’s 250th anniversary, it is especially meaningful to recognize the enduring contributions Irish Americans have made to the fabric of the United States through service, leadership, faith, and community.

I am proud to represent this shared heritage while serving as an ambassador of goodwill, encouraging future generations to appreciate the cultural traditions that continue to strengthen our communities. My commitment to service has been a guiding principle throughout my life. As a United States Army Military Police veteran, I learned the values of duty, honor, integrity, and selfless service, principles that continue to shape my work today as a human resources executive, community volunteer, and titleholder.

Through pageantry, I strive to use my platform to inspire others to lead with compassion, build meaningful connections, and celebrate the diverse cultural traditions that unite us. Becoming part of the Harp & Shamrock Society of Texas is an opportunity to honor the legacy of those who came before us while helping ensure that Irish heritage remains vibrant for generations to come. One of my favorite appearances during my reign this year as Mrs. Texas Classique 2026 was to participate in the St. Patrick’s Day parade on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, TX. What a fun, proud moment to be treated as Irish Royalty by the Harp & Shamrock Society of Texas!

I am grateful to stand alongside fellow members in celebrating our shared history, strengthening the bonds between Ireland and Texas, and proudly representing the spirit of Irish Americans during this historic milestone in our nation’s story.