'A lady ahead of her time': Death mourned of Sr Berchmans Doohan

Loreto Secondary School in Letterkenny have paid tribute to the late Sr Berchmans (Nora) Doohan.

Sr Berchmans, who passed away on Saturday in her 103rd year, was recalled as a 'lady ahead of her time'.

Sr Berchmans, who was a member of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Loreto Sisters) spent most of her religious life at Loreto Convent in Letterkenny.

Her impact was felt beyond the walls of the school.

In marking her passing with 'great sadness', Loreto Secondary School said: “She was responsible for catering for the many boarders who passed through the doors of the school.

“In addition to this, Sr. Berchmans had several outside interests, including the introduction and hosting of a weekly social afternoon in the school’s Concert Hall for patients from the local St. Conal’s Hospital.

“Lots of students from both Loreto and St Eunan’s College were involved in this initiative. As quoted by a past pupil of St Eunan’s: 'She inspired us to set up the Junior Mental Health Association.'

“Sr Berchmans was truly a lady ahead of her time who radiated kindness and joy wherever she went.”

Sr Berchmans, formerly of Derryconnor, County Donegal, passed away peacefully at St Michael's, Loreto Convent, Navan.

Predeceased by her parents Patrick and Brigid, brothers Hughie, Johnny, Charlie and Francis, sisters Sr. Patrick and Sr. Ignacio, she will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her Loreto Community and carers, nieces, nephews and their families in Scotland, Australia, USA and Donegal - in particular Moira Nì Ghallachoir and Paul - relatives, neighbours and her wide circle of friends.

Sr Berchmans will be laid to rest in New Leck Cemetery, following her funeral Mass in St Eunan’s Cathedral on Thursday, March 16 at 11am.