Sr. Philomena McKeon

Sr. Philomena McKeon R.I.P

Sr. Philomena McKeon died peacefully in Gallen Priory Nursing Home, Ferbane on Friday morning 13th April at 3.am. She was surrounded by some members of the St.Joseph's Community and the night staff of the Nursing Home.

Sr. Philomena was born in Grange, Curraghboy, Athlone on 19th January 1922 and made profession ass a Cluny sister in Gallen Priory on 10th August 1950. She was assigned to Seychelles in the Indian Ocean where she spent 46 years. During this time she endeared herself to the people, especially the poor.

Having mastered the native language she was able to converse with ease with them. Her charism was to be able to make people feel at home and at ease with her. She served the people in many ministries, especially visiting the sick and the poor and animating prayer groups. No doubt her many acts of goodness and kindness are fondly remembered by all to whom she ministered.

Sr. Philomena returned to Ireland in 1996 and was assigned to St.Joseph's, Ferbane. She quickly integrated herself into life of the community, the town and the parish. She became a member of several groups in the parish, especially the Charismatic Prayer Group and the Apostolic Workers. She always had a friendly word and had time to chat with all who came in contact with her.

Due to her ill health Sr. Philomena spent the past 4 years in Gallen Priory Nursing Home where she was well cared for by the sisters and the staff. She will be sadly missed by her community and all the Cluny Sisters with whom she came in contact, and also by the McKeon family who moutn for her.

Sr. Philomena's Funeral Mass took place in St. Mary's Parish Church Ferbane on Sunday 13th April. There was a large attendance of Cluny sisters from the Irish Communities, parishioners, very many from her home parish and her many realtions and friends. She was laid to rest in Gallen Priory cemetery beside her sister, Sr. Anthony.

May her dear soul rest in peace.

St. Joseph's Community, Ferbane