Obituary: Sr Mary Reidy

Sr Mary Therese Reidy was born on 16 December 1949 in Lancaster, England, to Irish parents, Patrick and Catherine Reidy.

After secondary school, she entered the English Province of the Daughters of Jesus, making her profession in 1970 following her novitiate in France. She trained as a nurse at St Mary’s Hospital, London, and served in nursing for many years. After further studies in theology and spiritual direction, she ministered at St Beuno’s Jesuit Retreat Centre in North Wales, where she combined her gifts for spiritual accompaniment and compassionate care.

Having first visited Glencairn in 1980 to try her vocation, Sr Mary returned to the Daughters of Jesus, but came again to the Cistercian way in 2007 to begin the process of transferring to this community. She made her Solemn Profession at Glencairn on 26 March 2012.

A woman of deep faith and profound devotion to Our Lady, Sr Mary served faithfully as the monastery’s infirmarian until declining health made this no longer possible. She was known for her generosity, simplicity, and warm compassion. A gifted listener and faithful friend, she touched many lives through her gentle presence, thoughtful counsel, and constant prayer.

Sr Mary was admitted to Cork University Hospital on 8 June, where she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She died peacefully on 16 July, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

May she rest in peace.

Her remains will be received into the Church at Glencairn on Sunday. Her funeral will take place on Monday 20th July at 3pm.