Sacred Heart Fondly Remembers Mary Wycherley

Obituary for Mrs Mary Wycherley

We encounter many characters as we journey through life. We do not always recall the conversations that we had or the lessons that we learned but we effortlessly remember how those people made us feel. Many, many women in west Cork are mourning the loss of Mrs Mary Wycherley this week. She was a lady who made them feel valued; cared for; truly respected. Past pupils fondly remember her as ‘firm but fair’ - two essential ingredients when mentoring, leading and managing a school.

One need only take a few small steps inside Sacred Heart Secondary School before being drawn to the face of this highly-regarded woman. Her photograph is suitably mounted outside the door of the Deputy Principal’s office: ever-present in the fabric of our school. Her face is affirming; she inspires and supports us.

Mrs Wycherley joined Sacred Heart Secondary School in 1967 as a Geography and Irish teacher. Ten years later, following the retirement of Ms Kitty McCarthy, she became vice-principal. She was ‘acting principal’ from 2004 until February 2007.  She retired in August 2007 having given forty years of dedicated service to Sacred Heart. An inspirational teacher, mentor and leader, she courageously believed in a solution-based approach. The wellbeing of the students was of paramount importance to her. Her interest in every pupil who attended Sacred Heart never waned and went far beyond the classroom. She was not only an esteemed colleague but the truest of friends.

Mary loved to quote the poet, John O’ Donohue, and his words bring comfort to us at this sad time:

“May you continue to inspire us:

To enter each day with a generous heart.

To serve the call of courage and love

Until we see your beautiful face again.”

Rest in Peace, Mrs Wycherley.