Remembering Sr. Mary Donovan: A Tribute to Kinsale Community School's Founding Principal

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Sr. Mary Donovan, RIP, a beloved figure in the history of Kinsale Community School. Sr. Mary served as the founding Principal of our school since its inception in 1996 until her retirement in 2010. Prior to her tenure at Kinsale Community School, she dedicated her leadership to Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Secondary School in Kinsale.

Sr. Mary's profound commitment to education and community left an indelible mark on our school's ethos. She tirelessly worked to unite the traditions of the convent and vocational education, fostering an environment of inclusivity, compassion, and academic excellence. Her legacy continues to enrich the lives of our students, our community, and ourselves, and we are deeply grateful for her enduring impact.

Sr. Mary peacefully passed away at Marymount University Hospital and Hospice, Cork, on Saturday. A native of Drimoleague, she previously served as the principal of Our Lady of the Rosary Secondary School, which later merged with Kinsale Vocational School to form Kinsale Community School.

In honour of Sr. Mary's memory, the flag is being flown at half-mast at Kinsale Community School.

We invite all who wish to pay their respects to Sr. Mary to join us as she lies in repose at Gabriel and O'Donovan's Funeral Home, Kinsale, on Monday (April 1st) from 1 pm, followed by prayers at 3:30 pm.

A Requiem Mass will be held on Tuesday (April 2nd) at 12 noon in St. John the Baptist Church, Kinsale. The service will be livestreamed on www.churchservices.tv/kinsale for those unable to attend in person. Following the Mass, Sr. Mary will be laid to rest in St. Eltin's Cemetery, Kinsale.

Sr. Mary was keen that her school colleagues, friends, and all involved in this occasion would gather after her funeral mass. Following her heartfelt wish, arrangements have been made at the Trident.  Sr. Mary would have been in her element among us, reminiscing and sharing memories, as we celebrate her life and bid her farewell. 

May Sr. Mary Rest in Peace.