Tributes were paid in the Laois County Council chamber on Monday following the sad passing of Catherine Quigley.
Mrs Quigley, from Rockdale in Portlaoise, passed away on Thursday November 24 after a short illness.
She devoted most of her life to community work and was the director of the children’s choir in Portlaoise for 40 years.
She, alongside her husband Kevin, also fostered many children over the years.
Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald led the tributes to Mrs Quigley and said her loss to the community is immeasurable.
Cllr Fitzgerald said: “Catherine Quigley was the director of the children’s choir for 40 years.
“She put thousands of children through her hands over the years and left her mark on the community through her long service.
“It is very sad and an immense loss to the community – my thoughts are with her family.”
Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley said: “I echo everything that Catherine has said.
“She was a wonderful organ player and I remember her well from my days in the choir.”
Cllr Willie Aird added: “Catherine did trojan work with children and that was highlighted when you see the amount of people who turned up for her funeral.”
Cllr Noel Tuohy said: “Catherine did more good work in Laois than will ever be known.
“I worked with her husband Kevin for 30 years and my condolences go to all of the family.”
Catherine is survived by her husband Kevin and children Selene, Siobhán, Ronán, also Noreen.
She is the cherished grandmother to Sophie, JJ, Oscar and Joshua.
Catherine is deeply regretted by her loving family, brothers Liam, David and Michael, sisters Bernadette, Franzita and Patricia, sons in law John and David, daughter in law Claire, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, her many foster children and godchildren.
She was laid to rest on Saturday November 26. May Catherine Rest in Peace.
