RIP: Tributes paid to ‘truly remarkable’ 108-year-old Waterford nun following sad passing
Sr Colette Hickey was born in Ballinamult, Co Waterford in 1918
Tributes have been paid to a “truly remarkable” 108-year-old nun from County Waterford who has sadly passed away.
Sr Colette Hickey passed away peacefully at Bon Secours Care Village in Cork on Tuesday, June 23.
She had only recently been named Ireland’s oldest person, having been born in Barracree, Ballinamult on January 31, 1918.
At the age of 17, Sr Collette joined the Good Shepherd Sisters in Cork City, where she has remained ever since.
In 1972, she founded Edel House as an emergency refuge for women and children.
Today, it is recognised as one of Cork’s most well-known homelessness charities.
In 1993, Sr Colette was the first-ever winner of the Cork Person of the Year award, which was presented to her by the then-Taoiseach, Albert Reynolds.
The staff of Edel House paid tribute to the charity’s founder in a post on social media.
A charity spokesperson said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Sister Colette Hickey, a beloved member of Good Shepherd Cork and a woman whose kindness, compassion, and dedication touched countless lives throughout our community.
“Yesterday, Cork lost a truly remarkable woman. For generations, Sr Colette was a beacon of hope for those facing hardship.
“Through her vision, unwavering faith, and commitment to helping others, she made a lasting difference in the lives of so many women, children, and families.”
They continued by outlining the impact Sr Colette had on those around her, one which they believe will last for generations.
“As the founder of Edel House and a tireless advocate for those most in need, Sr Colette devoted her life to serving others with dignity, care, and understanding.
“Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched and the support she provided to those who needed it most. As she would say... ‘from a very small seed’.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, her fellow sisters, the Good Shepherd community, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
“May she rest in eternal peace, and may her extraordinary legacy of love, service, and compassion never be forgotten.”
Sr Colette will repose at Mayfield Funeral Home, Old Youghal Road, Cork from 5pm to 6pm on Thursday, June 25.
Requiem Mass will be held in St Joseph’s Church, Mayfield at 11am on Friday, June 26, followed by burial in St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Kilcully.
May She Rest in Peace.