Devoted mother and grandmother Kathleen Whelan remembered as the woman who brought the Christmas lights to The Faythe

Predeceased by her beloved husband Jim three years ago, Kathleen had been in the care of the staff at Kerlogue Nursing home in recent years.

She is survived by her loving children Michael, Paul, Catherine, Ciaran, James and Enda, as well as her thirteen grandchildren, great grandchildren, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, sisters Mary and Brigid and brother Patrick.

Kathleen was born in the village of Hospital County Limerick where she lived until 16 years old, when work brought her to Wexford. There she met her husband Jim and the pair enjoyed 62 years of marriage together.

After moving to England and rearing her first three children, the family moved back to Wexford and built their home in Michael Street where they would have three more children. Kathleen's life's work was rearing and minding her children and grandchildren and they were all a source of immense pride to her.

A very sociable lady, Kathleen loved to spend time with family and friends on all occasions. She never forgot her roots and was eternally proud of Limerick. Even though she had spent her adult life in Wexford, she proudly wore her Limerick Jersey to the 1996 All Ireland final and stood among the Wexford supporters on Hill 16. Her love of all things Irish was a cornerstone of Kathleen's life and she spent many happy times set dancing around the county and abroad.

Kathleen was very well known throughout Wexford Town for her community spirit and ability to give back to the community she lived in. She spent many years as a board member of the Wexford area partnership and was also an active member of the Southend Family Resource Centre. She was renowned for her championing of the underprivileged in Wexford Town.

She was involved in many charities and was a real community activist. Kathleen may be best remembered locally as the lady who brought the Christmas lights and children's party to the Faythe every year and would remind civic and business leaders of their responsibility to donate and attend. After many years of fundraising, it is testament to her work that this area is now included in the Christmas lights each year.

Faith was very important to Kathleen, and she worked tirelessly on many Parish initiative. She loved Bride Street Church, and her funeral there was a fitting tribute to her, beautifully celebrated by her friend Fr Billy Swan.

The Whelan family would like to say a special thanks to Kearney's Funeral Home and in particular her niece, Carol Kearney for all her help. They also sought to thank all the carers who helped look after Kathleen in her later years.

May she rest in peace.