SVP colleagues pay tribute to late 'humble and gentle' Frances O'Donnell

There is much sadness in Donegal Town following news of the death of Frances O'Donnell. 

She passed away at Aras Mhic Shuibhne following a long illness.

Frances was much loved in Donegal Town for her friendliness and compassion.

TA tribute paid by colleagues in the St Vincent de Paul captures her contribution to the Donegal Town community. 

It reads: "It is with great sadness that we note the death today of Frances O'Donnell.

"Frances was a longstanding member of St Vincent de Paul in Donegal Town.

"She, with a friend, Margaret Cooke, identified a need in the local community and, in 1985, had the foresight to start what was then called the "

Thrift Shop.

"From modest beginnings in what was the basement of the old cinema and the very hard work and commitment of two very practical women and the work of dozens of volunteers since then, there is now the very successful and still volunteer led Vincents Shop in Water Street.

"Frances's 32 years of work as a member of St Vincent de Paul was acknowledged with a presentation in 2022.

"The work of this very humble and gentle woman was so well done, and the community owed her a great debt of gratitude. Rest in peace now, Frances, and we offer our sympathy to her devoted son, Aidy, her nieces, nephews and extended family, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends."

Frances’s remains will repose in the Tír Conaíll Funeral Home, Donegal Town, F94FX3A from 6pm until 9pm on Tuesday and from 3pm until 9pm on Wednesday.

Removal from Tír Conaíll Funeral Home, Donegal Town, F94FX3A on Thursday morning at 10:30am for Funeral mass at 11am in St Patrick’s Church, Donegal Town with burial afterwards in Clar cemetery.

Family flowers only donations if so desired to St Vincent De Paul, Donegal Town.