In Memory

Sr. Annunciatia O’Grady R.I.P.

Sr. Annunciata (affectionately known as ‘Nuncy’) died peacefully in the loving care of the Sisters and Staff of Sallyville House Wexford on 5th January 2024.

Annunciata was born in Cloggernagh, Islandeady, Castlebar, Co. Mayo on 4/6/1927 to Mary O’Grady (nee Fergus) and Martin. She was Christened Teresa (known as Tessie). She is predeceased by her three sisters Sr. Fidelis LCM, Brigid (Gibbons) and Margaret (Sr. Cajetan SSJG), brother-in-law Austin, nephew Michael and niece Mary. Sadly missed by her nephews Martin and Austin, nieces Ann, Bridie and Tessie, nieces-in-laws, grand nieces and nephews and extended family.

Annunciata’s earlier education was in the local school in Cloggernagh.  She later completed a commercial course in Castlebar Vocational School. She worked in Egan Solicitors Office for a number of years and continued to keep contact with Miss Egan for many years.

She entered the SJG Novitiate in Wexford on 3/10/1945 and made First Profession 6/9/1948 and Final Profession 6/9/51. She spent 63 years in ministry in SJG Convent Waterford and retired to SJG Convent Wexford in 2011.  She finally moved to Sallyville House in 2017. Annunciata celebrated her Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilees in Waterford and her Platinum in Wexford.

Her ministry was teaching typing, shorthand and book-keeping to senior girls in the SJG School Waterford. When the pre-school was established in 1998 she helped to run it for many years. During those years Annunciata also visited and prayed with the sick in their homes and the local Hospitals: Waterford Regional, St. Patricks, the County Infirmary and St. Otteran’s. She was always welcomed by the staff. Her bicycle gave her independence and freedom and her presence was appreciated and greeted by the local people. Every baby born in the Parish and beyond got a gift of a ‘God Bless Baby’ badge and prayer.

Annunciata’s shorthand and typing skills were greatly appreciated in those pre-computer days, both in the School and the Congregation especially during Chapter days. Her clerical skills extended to helping Fr. Peyton to promote his mission of ‘The Family that Prays Together Stays Together’.

In 1998 Annunciata was the recipient of the local Waterford Award for Peace and Justice in Recognition of the care and compassion she gave to so many people down the years.

She loved to visit her native Mayo, calling to neighbours and friends and praying with them. Her regular visits to Knock Shrine during the National Novena to Our Lady were special to her.

She is sadly missed by the Sisters and all the Staff who cared for her during her years in Salyville. It was obvious from the large attendance during her funeral days, that Annunciata was regarded with great affection and esteem by so many people, especially from Waterford.

Her funeral Mass was celebrated on 8/1/2024 by Fr. Tony O’Connell, Chaplain to Sallyville House.  He was assisted by Fr. Liam Power, Waterford. She was buried in the Convent Cemetery.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dilís.