It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Bride O’Rourke, who passed away peacefully at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was predeceased by her parents Patrick and Rose Coffey, her daughter Sandra Ann, husband Patrick, brothers Maurice (Loretta), Jeremiah (Madeline), Paddy (Bride) and brother Harold. Her sisters, Mary (Tom), Ann (Dick) (known to us as Nan), Elaine (Gerald).
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her children, Gary (Christine), Pauline (Jerry), Anne (Doug), Judy (Clarence), Patsy (Gene), Linda (Dave) and grandchildren, Shawn, John (Lindsey), Kristen (Joshua), Gavin (Laura), Robin (Bianca) and Sandi (Kat). Great-grandchildren Trevor and Izzac who called her Nanny O, also a large extended family, many dear friends, and all whose lives were enriched by her warmth and wisdom.
Bride was a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and beloved great-grandmother whose greatest joy was found in the company of her family. Her home was always a place of warmth, kindness, and generosity, where everyone was welcomed with a caring heart and a gentle smile.
Born and raised in Angel’s Cove (Angles Cove), Newfoundland, Bride was among the last people in Branch to remember many of the old Irish words, expressions, and customs that had been passed down through generations. She worked with folklorists to document rare centuries-old Irish words, knowledge of traditional clothing, local sayings and stories. Thanks to her willingness to share her remarkable memory, her stories have been recorded and will continue to preserve an important part of Newfoundland’s history for future generations.
Bride spent 15 years living in Labrador City before returning home to Branch, where she spent her final years surrounded by the community she loved so dearly. Her home was rarely quiet, as she was blessed with frequent visits from her many friends and family, whose love and companionship brought her great happiness.
A woman of unwavering faith, Bride was a devoted member of Holy Rosary Church, where her deep spirituality was reflected in a lifetime of prayer, service, and compassion. Her faith guided every aspect of her life and inspired the kindness she extended to everyone she met.
Bride also had a lifelong love for animals. She cared for every creature with remarkable tenderness and believed that all living things deserved kindness and respect. Her gentle nature was evident not only in how she treated people but also in the compassion she showed to every animal that crossed her path.
Bride will be remembered for her generous spirit, her quiet strength, her rich storytelling, and her unwavering love for her family, her faith, her community, and her heritage. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and tradition that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Maher's Funeral Home, Placentia. Visitation to take place on Friday, July 3rd at Holy Rosary Church, Branch. A procession to Branch will be leaving Placentia at 11:00am. Mass of Christian Burial to take place 11:00am on Saturday, July 4th at Holy Rosary Church, Branch. Inurnment to follow at Holy Rosary Cemetery, Branch.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her to the Newfoundland & Labrador SPCA, or Holy Rosary Church, Branch.
May she rest in the peace of Christ, reunited with those who have gone before her, and may her memory be a blessing to all who loved her.