RIP: Sadness as Longford nun in her 101st year who touched countless lives dies in USA

It's with sadness and regret we record the death of Ballymore native Sr Jeanne (Molly) Monaghan which occurred in her 101st year in Pittsburgh USA.

Sister Jeanne de la Croix was peacefully called home to God on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, having celebrated her 100th birthday in December. Sr. Jeanne was born in Ballymore Granard, County Longford on December 8, 1924. 

She was the daughter of the late William Monaghan and Bridget (Columb) and was one of eight children. 

Sister Jeanne entered the Little Sisters of the Poor and pronounced her first vows on December 10, 1946, and her final vows on October 15, 1951. 

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In her 78 years of religious life, she served the elderly in numerous homes throughout the United States including: Boston, New York, Louisville, Washington, Indianapolis, Germantown, Mobile, Detroit, 31 years in Cleveland and the past 11 years in Pittsburgh.

Sister Jeanne will be first and foremost remembered by her perpetual, welcoming smile. For the past 80 years, she served the elderly with the mind and heart of Jesus and warmed many souls by her genuine interest and her Irish wit. She touched countless lives and brought comfort and hope to those whom she served. Sister Jeanne leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion and unwavering faith.

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Sister Jeanne is survived by her sisters, Patsy (Monaghan) Murphy and Ann (Monaghan) Murphy, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins here in her native Ireland and in America. 

She is predeceased by her brothers, Paddy and Danny Monaghan, as well as her three sisters, Brigid (Monaghan) Creegan, Kitty (Monaghan) Ratigan Gilpin and Peggy (Monaghan) Moroney.

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Funeral services were celebrated at the Little Sisters of the Poor in Pittsburgh. The Wake Services took place on Tuesday, April 15 with a special rosary. Mass of Resurrection took place on Wednesday, April 16 in the Gloria Chapel at the Little Sisters of the Poor in Pittsburgh and these were attended by her sisters and nephews and nieces and extended family, some of whom made the journey from Ireland to be present.

Donations to honour Sister Jeanne’s memory may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 1028 Benton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 through their website littlesistersofthepoorpittsburgh.org 

Mass for the late Sr Jeanne will be celebrated in her native Granard on Sunday, May 11 next. May she rest in eternal peace. 

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