ICA founder always gave freely of her time

TRIBUTES have poured in for Philomena Burchael, a founding member of Lucan Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA).

Ms Burchael (nee Hughes), a Lucan resident, passed away peacefully in Lucan Lodge Nursing Home on May 25.

Lucan ICA said “Philly, as we have known her was a treasure, a lively and friendly lady who attended all Guild meetings and functions.”

Ms Burchael served as President of Lucan ICA twice in 1976 and 1983 and on the committee.

In a tribute, Lucan ICA said: “Philly always gave freely of her time, knowledge and expertise in the area of crafts, patchwork, quilting, fabric painting, decoupage, knitted dolls, chicken scratching and cushion making. Philly loved her garden and shared her knowledge and plants with us, her favourite colour was purple.

“Philly loved to do comedy sketches for our group night – one making a Christmas cake of a different kind – flour all over herself, currants and raisins spilling out – brushed up and put back into the cake! All due to the amount of alcohol consumed and put into the cake, she would put a bottle of pretend whiskey on her head and stagger around the room.

“Philly had great memories of her life in Lucan, her schooldays, she would along with her next-door neighbour Phyllis Lacey entertain us with what they got up to in the early days. One favourite saying was “Do you remember it Jem! Ah I remember it well” – They were dressed up as 2 old men – great entertainment.

“We will miss her so much, rest in peace Philly, we send our deepest sympathy to Anita, Patrice, Aaron and her brother Ray.”

A message on RIP.ie said Ms Burchael was the beloved wife of the late Patrick and much-loved mother of Anita, Patrice and Aaron, who will be missed by family and friends.