In Memory

Sr. Assumpta Burke R.I.P.

 On Thursday 25^th February 2021, Sr. Assumpta Burke died peacefully at home in the presence of her community at Grange Cove, Dunmore Rd.,Waterford. She had been in failing health for a number of years, but always bore her suffering with a smile and with gratitude for the Sisters and health personnel, who lovingly cared for her and were deeply saddened by her death.

Sr. Assumpta – Christina Burke, was the second youngest of five children born in December 1935 to William and Margaret Burke (nee Finn) of Ruska, Cahir, Co. Tipperary. She attended the local Primary School in Ballylooby and received her secondary education in the Mercy Convent School in Cahir. Through the influence of her cousin – a member of the community there, she began to consider religious vocation as the possible direction for her future life.  Following school, she entered the St. John of God Novitiate in Wexford in October 1954 and received the religious name ‘Assumpta’, a name she requested because of her devotion to Our Lady.  She was professed in 1957 and made Final Profession in 1960.

Assumpta trained as a nurse in the Co. Hospital, Wexford and later qualified in Maternity in Drogheda and in Public Health Nursing in Cork. She ministered in St. John’s, Parkton and Brownswood, Enniscorthy, in Maypark Nursing Home and the Holy Ghost Home, Waterford. She also worked in Public Health in Kilkenny City, the Mullinavat area and Gorey.

Assumpta was very close to her family and kept in regular contact with all of them. She always enjoyed family gatherings. Relating easily with people, she had a great sense of humour and fun. During her days in Public Health, she loved visiting the schools and relished her experiences with the children. A competent nurse, she was full of compassion and kindness for her patients.  Her Sisters in community too, remember her as obliging, generous, easy-going and pleasant. During her retirement years, she loved the challenge of learning new computer skills and regularly relaxed playing a game of Spider Solitaire.

Assumpta’s Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church, Ballylooby by Very Rev. James Denmead P.P., after which she was laid to rest with her family in the adjoining cemetery. Due to Covid restrictions, a limited number of mourners were present.

Assumpta was predeceased by her brother Liam and sister Mary. She is mourned by her sister Kitty Keating and brother, Phil, her nieces, nephews, St. John of God Sisters, extended family and many friends.

May her gentle soul rest in the eternal joy of God’s kingdom.