A charismatic nurse who worked in Australia

Sue Pham Van 1929-2023

The death of Sue PhamVan (nee Cullen) occurred in Randwick, Sydney, Australia on November 2 2023, and her remains were recently laid to rest in her family plot in Loughduff Cemetery.

Sue and her twin brother Tom were born in March 1929 to John (formerly Loughduff) and Christine Tierney (formerly of Clonlohan, Mullahoran) in Gartnasilla, Cavan. Sue attended St Claire’s convent school and later the Technical School in Cavan. When she was eighteen Sue and her sister Betty headed to England to train as nurses at Bridgewater General Hospital. Having completed her training in 1951 she later moved to Bristol Hospital to specialise in Ophthalmology.

This courageous lady then decided to travel to Australia and after six weeks aboard ship she arrived into Sydney harbour in January 1961. Following various postings in Australia and having qualified in pulmonary nursing she eventually moved to Randwick Hospital and was one of the few nurses who had the honour of receiving Pope John Paul II there in 1986. Sue continued her caring career until she retired at the age of 70 having fulfilled her life-long ambition.

Charismatic

Sue was a wonderful and charismatic person and often travelled home especially to care for sick family members where she was always cheerful and fun to be around. She had many interests - from Australian wildlife, especially the colourful birds, to politics and fashion.

Even though she lived so far away she never forgot her family in Cavan and England. Her passing has left a great void in her family both at home in Gartnasilla and Australia. She is survived by her loving and caring husband Louis and daughter Tina and son-in-law Alan, sister Theresa Shannon, nieces and nephews.

Following requiem Mass, celebrated by Fr Kevin Fay, in the Cathedral of Ss Patrick & Felim, Cavan on Saturday August 31 last, her ashes were buried with her parents in the family plot in Loughduff cemetery.

May Sue rest in peace.