In Memory

Sr. Tarcissius O’Neill R.I.P.

Sr. Tarcissius (Betty) O’Neill was born in Killane, Rathmure, Co. Wexford.  Her parents were Michael and Margaret O’Neill.  “Tarcie” as she was known to her friends, was one of a family of seven, two sisters and three brothers.  She entered St. John of God Novitiate 21st June 1934.  Her First Profession was on 30th June 1937, and her Final Profession on 30th June 1940.

Tarcie was involved in catering for most of her religious life.  She ministered in Kilkenny Convent, John’s Hill, Waterford, Rathdowney, and Ely Hospital.  In 1964 she was appointed to Courtney Hill, Newry where she remained until her death on 8th February 2009.

Although Tarcie’s official ministry was catering, this was not her limit.  She became involved in fund raising for Courtney Hill Hospital and Hospice.  Tarcie’s vitality and charm drew forth great support and ensured very successful and pleasant social gatherings.

Tarcie’s faith journey was deep and faithful.  She had special devotion to Mary Our Mother.  Shortly before her death she spoke with gratitude of the many times she had visited Shrines of Our Lady, in particular Lourdes, Fatima and Medjugorje.  It was touching then to note that her burial took place 11th February, Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes.

In later years Tarcie had a very real commitment to the Dominicans and their Friary. The result of this commitment was evident in the large numbers who attended Mass for the repose of her soul in Newry Cathedral.  The Bishop of Dromore, John McAreavey, spoke of her as being fun loving, hospitable and a lover of life.  This too is how her St. John of God Community remember her.

Following her Requiem Mass in Rowe St Church, Wexford, on 11th February 2009, Tarcie was interred in the Community Cemetery, Newtown Road, in her beloved Wexford.  We give thanks for her life and love and we pray that she now enjoys the peace of eternal life with the God she loved and served in life.