In Memory

Sr. Sylvester Brennan R.I.P.

Sr. Sylvester Brennan was born in Kilkieran, Inistioge, Co. Kilkenny  on 5th October, 1915.  She was christened Mary Bridget.  Her parents were Hannah (nee Conway) and Matthew Brennan.  She was predeceased by her brother John and her sisters, Bridie Murphy and Norah Sheehy.

Sylvester entered the St. John of God Novitiate, Wexford, on 24th September 1937.  She made her First Profession on 30th June 1940 and her Final Profession on 30th June 1943.  On completion of her nurse training in Mercy Hospital, Cork, ‘Sylvie’, as she was affectionately known, ministered in many of our hospitals, including Aut Even, Castlecomer and Thomastown where she spent 22 years.  Her care and concern for the poor and needy went far beyond the call of duty.  While in Thomastown she became involved with the Wheelchair Association and also the Association for the Blind.  On her retirement from Thomastown she continued her involvement with these associations for many more years.

In 1980 Sylvie was appointed as Pastoral Care Sister in Aut Even Hospital.  Through all the years of ministry, her care of the dying was deeply appreciated and many were touched by her sheer goodness and care.  The members of her own family expressed their fond memories and deep appreciation of her wonderful care for them in times of illness but especially at times of family bereavements.

In 2001, Sylvie retired to St. John of God Convent, College Road, Kilkenny.  It must be said that she was an avid Kilkenny supporter and in latter years she was always happy to welcome “Liam McCarthy” and the Kilkenny Team at the Convent.  She became involved in the Altar Bread Department at this stage.

Finally ill health took its toll but she bore her illness with faithfilled endurance and was always gentle and grateful for the many kindnesses shown her by her Sisters in community, her carers and many friends.  She died peacefully on 14th  September 2013, just three weeks short of her 98th Birthday.

Following concelebrated Requiem Mass at St Patrick’s Church she was laid to rest in Foulkstown Cemetery, Kilkenny.  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.