RIP: Tributes paid to Tipperary-born Presentation Sister and respected teacher

Tributes have been paid following the death of Sr Nano Purcell, Presentation Convent, Clondalkin, Dublin, and formerly of Lisdonowly, Moyne, Co Tipperary, who passed away on February 1, 2026, in her 96th year.

Sr Nano died peacefully in the devoted care of the staff of Clondalkin Lodge Nursing Home. She is remembered as a deeply committed member of the Presentation Community and a much-loved teacher and school leader who influenced generations of students and colleagues.

Predeceased by her parents Thomas and Brigid, her brothers Pat and Tommy, and her sister Bridie, Sr Nano is sadly missed by her Presentation Community, her brother Fr Sean Purcell CSsR of Limerick, her sister Maura Mulumby, as well as her nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and great-grandniece.

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Throughout her long career in education, Sr Nano became widely known for her passion for teaching and her commitment to students. She served as a valued teacher at Coláiste Bríde Presentation Secondary School in Clondalkin, where colleagues say she shared a particular love for English and IT and played an active role in the school’s Parents’ Development Group.

The Dublin Diocesan Education Secretariat extended sympathies to the Purcell family and the Presentation Community, noting that Sr Nano served “so faithfully following the charism of Venerable Nano Nagle” and describing her as a valued member of the Coláiste Bríde staff.

Former pupils and colleagues have also shared personal memories of her impact in the classroom and beyond. One tribute recalled a “magical” fifth-class year under Sr Nano’s guidance, when their class won an All-Ireland title in Irish Shipping’s “Follow the Fleet” competition, an achievement that remained a treasured memory. The same former pupil later returned as a teacher and credited Sr Nano, then principal of Bunscoil na Toirbhirte, with giving them the opportunity that shaped their entire career.

Others remembered her presence in the staffroom, her encouragement of younger teachers, and her lasting influence on school life in Clondalkin. Many described her as warm, forward-thinking and dedicated, saying she will be fondly remembered by all who worked and learned alongside her.

Reposing will take place at Brian McElroy’s Funeral Home, Monastery Road, Clondalkin, from 2pm to 4pm on Thursday, February 5. A Mass to celebrate Sr Nano’s life will be held on Friday, February 6, at 11.30am in the Church of the Immaculate Conception and St Killian, Clondalkin Village, followed by burial at Newlands Cross Cemetery, arriving at approximately 1pm.