Lourdes family mourns Hospitalité members

Our Lourdes family was deeply saddened to hear the sad news that long-serving handmaid Anne Cuff and brancardier Tom O’Hagan have recently passed away. Anne, who worked as a nurse on the pilgrimage for many years, died on June 18 after a short illness, with her husband John beside her.

“After her retirement from nursing she worked on the handmaids’ team, still able to use and deliver all those skills she had to care for our supported pilgrims,” said outgoing head handmaid, Chris Tillotson.

There was a big turnout of Hospitalité members at Anne’s funeral arrangements at St Bernadette's Church, Nunthorpe, Middlesbrough, on Wednesday July 5.

Tom, who was from Bridlington, died on June 26 after a long illness. His Requiem Mass was celebrated at the Church of Our Lady and St Peter, Bridlington.

Outgoing head brancardier Tony Kirk said:

“Anyone who knew Tom would know what a kind, gentle and lovely man he was, and he will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

“He came to Lourdes as a brancardier for nine years, giving fantastic service during that time.”

Shortly before going to press we heard that Andrew Downs had passed away.

Andrew was with us in Lourdes this year with his daughter Marie, staying in the Accueil and had enjoyed the experience of Lourdes very much. His funeral is at St Joseph's Church, High Street, Loftus at noon on Thursday August 3. We pray for the repose of their souls and for their families.