Tributes paid to late Kildare nun, Sr Rosarii - “a truly kind and generous soul”

Tributes have poured in for the late Sr Rosarii, who was an understated champion of the Rathangan community and much loved former Bunscoil Bhríde principal.

She passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15 in Catherine McAuley House Beaumont Dublin.
Originally of Cnocán Rua, Rathcoole, Cork, Sr Rosarii Murphy came to Rathangan in 1950, and left in 2017 when the Sisters of Mercy sold the convent building.

Her removal took place to the Church of the Assumption and St. Patrick, Rathangan last Wednesday evening, December 17, with her funeral mass held yesterday morning, followed by burial in the Convent Cemetery.

She will be hugely missed by all who knew her, including her nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, friends, staff and residents of the nursing home, the Mercy Congregation and and the Sisters in Booterstown Community.

Bunscoil Bhríde informed parents of her passing last Tuesday and described her as “a kind and gentle lady who embodied everything the Sisters of Mercy stood for.”

“She cared so deeply for all of the children in her care during her time at our school and this is evidenced in the lovely memories we have all heard shared of her.”

It added; “In her quiet gentle way, she did so much good for so many of the families in our village.”
The school’s Christmas carol service was dedicated to her memory.

Ardscoil Rath Íomgháin said; “Sr Rosarii was one of the Mercy sisters who left a lasting legacy in Rathangan. As well as being the former Principal of the girls school, she did great work in the community and was well known for her kindness and helping others.

“After training she spent her entire vocation in Rathangan until she and Sr Bernadette were last nuns to leave Rathangan in 2017. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sr Bernadette and Sr Rosario’s family and friends at this difficult time. May she rest in peace.”

Many past pupils were also full of praise, with “kind” and “kindness” the dominant words featured in the tributes.

“Sr. Rosarii was such a warm hearted lady, she offered huge encouragement to so many and found the good in everyone. My own Nanny loved the art classes in the Day Care Centre with Sr. Rosarii and we have lots of lovely paintings to look at fondly,” said one former student.

“A truly kind and generous soul who left warmth and goodness everywhere you went. You had a special gift with children, and the love you showed your pupils will be remembered always. You will be deeply missed,” wrote another.

Sr Rosarii loved teaching art and music, and had a great appreciation of nature. Her quiet unassuming manner allowed her to connect with people with great warmth and love. She will be hugely missed.

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