The late Paddy Vaughan One of Our Lady's Island's greatest sons, Paddy Vaughan of Ballycushlane, passed to his eternal reward in Kerlogue Nursing Home. He had reached the grand old age of 91 years. Born in Ballyfane, Carne, Paddy - a gentle and kind man - was associated with almost every organisation in the parish. His wonderful work for Our Lady's Island Pilgrimage over the years was immeasurable. He served as Chairman of the Pilgrimage Committee for very many years and was Chief Marshal at all processions during that time. Paddy gave of his time freely in developing and improving facilities for the thousands of pilgrims coming to Our Lady's Island each year. A man with countless friends and no enemies, he also served as Chairman of the Parish Council for many years. Educated in the parish school and St Peter's College, Paddy was a noted historian and did a number of interviews with Donnchadh O Dulaing on Radio Eireann. Only two days before his death he visited Carne, the spot he loved dearly, with his son David. Paddy loved his family and they in turn loved him. He had gifted hands and loved working with wood, making some magnificent pieces, which were admired by many. His remains were removed from his residence to the Church of the Assumption, Our Lady's Island where they were received by Rev.Brendan Nolan PP, and Rev. Matthias Glynn, P.P. Tagoat. There was a very large attendance. Requiem Mass was concelebrated by Rev. Nolan and Rev. Bernard Cushen, P.P. Ramsgrange, a family friend. The church was packed to capacity. Before Mass, symbols of Paddy's life were carried to the altar - a wooden bowl, carried by Lila Vaughan, daughter-in-law; a cap carried by Mary Egan, daughter; and his Bene Merenti medal by Serena Masterson. The readings were taken by Sinead Egan, granddaughter, James Vaughan, grandson and Jacqui Nolan. Prayers of the Faithful were read by Sarah Vaughan, granddaughter, Patrick Vaughan, grandson, Caithriona Egan, granddaughter and Patrick Egan, grandson. The gifts were carried to the altar by Michael, Peter and David Vaughan, Paddy's sons. Fr. Nolan in a moving homily spoke of Paddy as a man of strong Christian faith who loved the land and the sea. He said he was a great family man and a kind neighbour. He said Paddy's magnificent work for the Island Pilgrimage was acknowledged by Pope John Paul II when he received a Bene Merenti medal. He extended the sympathy of the parish to Paddy's family. The parish choir, led by Nancy Ellard, sang beautifully during Mass and Paddy Scallan sang the newly composed hymn "The Island of Our Lady," which Paddy who have greatly appreciated. Leo Carthy, friend and neighbour, on behalf of the Vaughan family, paid tribute to Paddy saying "No poet's pen nor sculptor's memorial could pay a just tribute to Paddy Vaughan, one of the greatest community leaders this parish has ever known." He recalled his long associations with the GAA and Carne Regatta committee, as well as his time as an officer with the local defence force during the emergency. During the 1978 commemoration celebrations he was elected a honourary Senator, while he was an actor with Lady's Dramatic Class and produced a wonderful play with Carne Dramatic class called "The Hook in the Harvest." He was also involved with the Parish Tops group, Muintir na Tire and spent many years as a helper on the pilgrimages to Lourdes - the list is endless. Paddy's family would like to thank Fr. Nolan, Fr Cushen, Fr Glynn and Fr. Eustace, former P.P. of Our Lady's Island. The Pilgrimage Committee formed a Guard of Honour beside the hearse on its way to the cemetery. Fr. Nolan and Fr. Cushen officiated at the graveside as we said farewell to 'one of the best.' - Courtesy of the Wexford People, 21st January 2009 Tweet

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