The Kilkenny Observer newspaper was delighted to join the large group of friends and colleagues and members of the Board of Management, in Newpark Close Family Resource Centre on Friday to bid farewell to Ber Brophy, retiring after almost two decades as Community Development worker. In a comprehensive address, centre manger Sheila Donnelly praised Ber’s ability and commitment and acknowledged the enormous debt owed by the FRC to her talented colleague. This was reiterated by Deputy Mayor Andrew McGuinness who commented that Ber Brophy’s work had positively impacted many people throughout Kilkenny. In a moving tribute, Kilkenny poet, Kathleen Phelan, read ‘Tapestry’ a specially penned piece to acknowledge the work of the Nifty 50’s’ and of Ber’s influence guiding this iconic group. Replying, Ber thanked everyone for their attendance and mentioned the enormous help she received from Siobhan O’ Brien, KCETB, and Sheila Donnelly, Project manager. In a final emotional ceremony, the FRC remembered the six members of the Nifty 50’s gone to their eternal reward. Family members of the deceased each poured a cup of sand into a ‘Memory Jar’ that will be displayed prominently within the centre. After the formalities were completed the attendance enjoyed a pleasant repast interspersed with fun and frivolity.
Photos enclosed by Kilkenny photographer Pat Shortall captured the attendance.
