A beautifully sculpted marble garden seat is now the central feature of the school garden in Assumption Primary School in Walkinstown in memory of Sr Eileen Sheehy RSC.
Sr Eileen spent most of her teaching career in Assumption Primary Schools and after she retired she worked voluntarily with the junior boys and girls. She contributed in so many ways – beautifying the corridors with floral arrangements and encouraging the children to appreciate nature and especially to enjoy the satisfaction of growing their own flowers. She was an integral member of staff during her last few years and was greatly appreciated and loved by everyone – children, staff and parents. For a number of years Assumption Schools held a fundraising Sponsored Walk – which always proved to be a great social event in the area for parents, teachers and children. Sister Eileen had a special role in this ‘walk’ each year – she kept an account of each group as they returned to base. It is interesting to note that this was her very last involvement in the school. During last year’s event Eileen became very ill, but she insisted on completing her job when she was encouraged to lie down: “I must go back to the school. They are depending on me.” The next day she was admitted to St. James’s Hospital.
The staff and parents of Assumption Schools wanted to do something special for Sister Eileen – something that would help them to remember her always! They decided that a Garden Seat would be a fitting Memorial – inscribed with the following:
Sit and remember
Sr. Eileen Sheehy, RSC
A loyal friend of the Assumption Schools
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam dílis
A beautifully sculpted marble garden seat is now the central feature of the school garden. It can be seen from most of the corridors and classrooms, and no doubt it will be a focal point for ‘resting’ during school playtimes!
On the 8th of November 2012 a Memorial Mass for Sister Eileen was celebrated in Assumption Church by Father P.J. Healy, and attended by the staff and pupils of the Boys and Girls schools, and many of their parents.
After the Mass Father Healy came to the school and gave the new seat a very special blessing. He prayed for the donors and all who would enjoy its comforts in the years to come!
