In Memory

Sr. Mary Buckley R.I.P.

Sr. Mary (Camillus) Buckley was born in Kilgarvan, Ballylongford, Co, Kerry, on 22nd February 1922.  Her parents were Catherine (nee Relihan) and John Buckley.  Mary had five brothers, Michael, Martin, Timothy, Johnny and her twin Jerry.  She had one sister, Eileen.  All predeceased her.

Mary entered St John of God Novitiate, Wexford on 7th September, 1939;  she made her First Profession on 25th May 1942 and Final Profession on 26th April 1945.

Mary commenced her teaching career in St John of God Primary School, Rathdowney, moved to Kilkenny and later to London and Edenderry.  Then in 1963, having done further studies at University College, Galway, she went to Nigeria.  There she became principal of the school in Akwa where she remained until the outbreak of the Nigerian/Biafran war in 1967.  At that time the Sisters were advised to leave Nigeria and Mary returned to Edenderry.  She was appointed Principal of St Mary’s Secondary School in 1968, a position she held until her retirement in 1986.  Mary was a very committed, dedicated and gifted educationalist.  She was quick to recognize talent in her students and fostered that talent.

Following her retirement from teaching Mary continued to minister in Edenderry.  She became involved in “Christian Living Communities” and founded her own group which is still in existence.  She had special care for those who were in trouble or vulnerable in any way.  She retired to St John of God Convent, Kilkenny in 2001.  During her retirement she enjoyed using her creative gifts, especially painting.

Eventually ill health took its toll.  During her prolonged illness Mary was lovingly cared for by her Sisters in Community and carers.  She died peacefully on 29th May 2013.  Her funeral Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Dan Carroll and Fr. Liam Lawton whom she taught in Edenderry.  Following her funeral Mass, Mary returned to her beloved Kerry for internment in Lislaughlin Abbey.  We thank God for all she has given so generously throughout her life and pray that she now enjoys the fullness of life with God.