In Memory

Sr. Brigid Leech R.I.P.

Sr. Brigid Leech was born in Killown, Edenderry, Co. Offaly on 8th June, 1942.  Her parents were Roseanna (nee Lawless) and Sean Leech.  She had one brother, Tim and three sisters, Elizabeth, Margaret and Ann.  She is survived by her brother Tim, Sister Ann, Sister-in-law Teresa, nieces and nephews.

Having completed her Secondary Education at St. John of God Post Primary School, Edenderry, Brigid entered St. John of God Novitiate on 3rd October, 1960.  She made her First Profession on 6th September 1963 and her Final Profession on the 6th September 1968.  Having trained as a General Nurse in Wexford County Hospital, she took up a nursing role in Ely Nursing Home.  Having spent three years there she was transferred to St. John’s Hospital, Enniscorthy where she remained until 1971.  In that year Brigid entered a new ministry with Social Services in Rathdowney, Co. Laois.  She gave of herself with generosity in that ministry and continues to be remembered with deep gratitude by the people of Rathdowney.

Then in 1978 Brigid volunteered for our mission in Cameroon.  Having previously graduated in Neonatal Care from Holles Street Hospital, she took up ministry in Mount Mary Maternity, Buea, Cameroon, a ministry she thoroughly enjoyed.  Within and beyond the clinic, Brigid cared for African people with her usual compassion, love and practicality.  While she was in Cameroon, both her parents died – may they rest in peace.  Brigid accepted these painful losses with a deep spirit of faith in her God.

In 1986 Brigid took a well earned sabbatical at Hawkestone Hall and appreciated this time of renewal.  Following her sabbatical she nursed in Castlecomer District Hospital and later at St. John of God Convent, Newtown Road.  In 1993 she spent one year as an Aid Worker with Goal in Sudan.  Then in 1999 she was appointed as Care Attendant with the South Eastern Health Board in Kilkenny, a position she held until 2008.  During her time as a Care Attendant people were very appreciative of her care and kindness.  She finally retired to the St. John of God Convent, College Road, Kilkenny.

Brigid’s health began to deteriorate but she bore all with gentleness and gratitude.  She was lovingly cared for by carers and Sisters in community.  She died peacefully on 21st November, 2014.  Her funeral mass was celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church by Fr. Dan Carroll.  She was laid to rest in Foulkstown Cemetry.

May she rest in the fullness of God’s love and peace.