Limerick, Ireland – The funeral obsequies of Sister Mary Montifort, a highly esteemed member of the Community of the Little Company of Mary at St. John’s Hospital, took place on Saturday morning. Sister Mary Montifort, known for her unwavering dedication and expertise as a nursing Sister at St. John’s Hospital, passed away after a brief illness.

Born in Birmingham to Irish parents, Sister Montifort joined the Community of the Little Company of Mary at their Convent in Hyson Green, Nottingham, England, at a young age. She was among the first Sisters to come to Limerick when the branch house was founded in 1888, thanks to the generosity of the late Count Moore of Mooresfort. For over 17 years, Sister Mary Montifort served in Limerick, devoting herself to the care of the sick and the poor.

The funeral service commenced at 10 o’clock yesterday morning at St. John’s Cathedral, presided over by the Most Reverend Dr U’Dwyer. Rev. M. O’Riordan, P.P. of St. Michael’s, served as celebrant, with Rev. J.A. O’Connor, C.C., as deacon, and Rev. D. Carroll, C.C., as sub-deacon. Reverend J. Shea, C.C., acted as master of ceremonies, and the chanters were Rev. M. Murphy, C.C., of St. John’s, and Rev. R. Devane, C.C., of St. Joseph’s.

The funeral was attended by a large number of clergy, including Very Rev. T.R. Shanaban, P.P. of St. Munchin’s; Rev. E. Treacy, V.F. of Askeaton; Rev. D.R. Shanabhao, V.F. of St. Mary’s; and many others. The general public, including notable figures such as Sir Vincent Nash and Alderman Stephen O’Mara, also paid their respects.

The funeral procession from the Cathedral to the private cemetery of the Community, located in the grounds adjacent to the hospital, was a solemn and impressive sight. The clergy led the procession while chanting the Miserere, followed by all the Sisters from the Community of the Little Company of Mary. A large concourse of the general public joined the procession, creating a deeply moving tribute to the departed Sister Mary Montifort.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 16 May 1905