There was much sadness in Bennettsbridge when news of the death of Elaine Dillon was announced. Elaine died on 5th April 2023, in the loving care of the kind staff at the Oak Ward, Palliative Care Unit, University Hospital, Waterford. A member of the Hennessy family and a native of Threecastles, Elaine had lived in Dunbell Big, Ballyreddin since her marriage to Karl.
She was a very popular and caring person and her untimely death is regretted by all. A devoted member of the nursing profession the large attendance at her funeral and the numerous on-line messages bore testimony to the esteem in which she was held by all.
Canon Pat Dalton welcomed family, friends and neighbours to the Requiem Mass in St Bennett’s Church, in celebration of Elaine’s life. He offered sympathy to her husband Karl, son James and extended family on behalf of the parish.
Family members and friends took part in the Liturgy. The Offertory procession included items which reflected Elaine’s many interests, mainly, her love of knitting and travel. She loved singing and was a loyal member of the Bennettsbridge Parish choir, children’s choir and Folk choir.
Her nephew shared some special memories of a much loved aunt, her love of family, community and her nursing life. She bore her illness with great courage and was an example to all.
Music throughout the ceremony was provided by Sean O’Neill and soloist, Martina Burke.
Elaine was predeceased by her mother, Nellie and is survived by her husband Karl and son James.
She is also mourned by her father Victor, brother Thomas, sister Kathryn (Costello), sister-in-law Constance, brother-in-law Larry, parents-in-law Anne and Milo Dillon, nieces and nephews Mary, Helena, Siobhán, Michael, Eleanor, Victor, Gillian and Pierce, God-parents Biddy and Michael Buckley, aunts, uncles, extended family and many friends.
Family, neighbours, friends and work colleagues paid their final respects in Johnston’s Funeral Home, John’s Green, Kilkenny, where vigil prayers were recited. Burial took place in Tulla Cemetery, Threecastles.
Rest in peace Elaine!
