In Memory

Sr. Marietta Doran R.I.P.

In the early morning of 10th July 2020, Sr. Marietta Doran died peacefully in the care of Sisters and Staff at Sallyville House. Although diagnosed with a terminal illness some years previously, Marietta had continued to participate fully in the life of the community until the very end. She joined the Sisters at Sallyville House just five weeks before her death, but even in those last weeks she carried her increasing fragility with dignity and a great sense of humour.  She always had a smile for everyone.

Marietta – Agnes Philomena Doran – was the second youngest in a family of eight girls and three boys born to Michael and Mary Anne Doran (nee Hughes) of Moycullen, Ballymurphy, Borris, Co. Carlow. She attended the local Primary School and then received her secondary education at the Brigidine Convent School in Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny.

Following in the footsteps of her aunt, Sr. Ibar Doran, Agnes entered the St. John of God Novitiate in Wexford in Sept. 1956 and at Reception received the name Marietta. Following her profession in 1959, she commenced Teacher Training in Southampton and during her teaching life she taught for a few years in Bristol and Trowbridge in England and also in Broome and Derby in North West Australia. Thirty years of her life were spent in Cardiff, which she considered her second home. She loved the Welsh children and her love of music and poetry and her sense of fun elicited a great response from them. She always supported the Welsh Rugby Team, but had to change allegiance when they were playing Ireland!

Having retired from teaching, Marietta continued to give generously of her time and energy in leadership roles in Wexford and Kilkenny Convents. She also served for three years as Parish Sister in Kilmore, Co. Wexford. In leadership, Marietta is remembered for her kindness, care and generosity to the Sisters and Staff. In the community, she encouraged creativity in the prayer and liturgy, which she enriched with her gifted singing voice. During her retirement years she continued her involvement in the liturgy, helped in the sacristy and always kept fresh flowers in the chapel. Marietta loved all in her extended family and always kept in contact with them. She was a truly spiritual woman, who had a deep trust in God and this was very evident during her final illness.

Marietta’s funeral Mass attended by her immediate family, some nieces and nephews and St. John of God Sisters, was celebrated by Fr. Tony O’Connell in Sallyville House, after which she was laid to rest with her aunt – Sr. Ibar – in the Convent cemetery. Because of Covid 19 restrictions, numbers attending were limited.

Marietta was predeceased by her sisters – Peggy, Kathleen, Betty, Theresa, Bridie and her brother, John. She is survived by her sisters, Maura and Anna and her brothers, Eddie and Michael.

May her gentle soul rest in peace.