It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of a remarkable soul, Doreen Elizabeth Shine (née Blennerhassett). In her 98th year, Doreen bid farewell to this world on January 13th, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family at University Hospital Limerick. As a mark of respect for her memory, Samco will remain closed on Tuesday, January 16th. Doreen’s journey through life was one of grace, resilience, and boundless love.
A cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, she left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. The news of her passing is met with a heavy heart, but it also invites reflection on a life that was lived with enduring strength and a generous spirit.
Born Doreen Elizabeth Blennerhassett, she embraced life’s joys and challenges with a grace that touched everyone around her. Her love story with the late Harold Shine was a testament to the enduring power of love, loyalty, and companionship. As a wonderful mother to Jennifer, Sam, Dawn, Cecil, and Valerie, she provided a nurturing and supportive foundation for her family. Doreen’s impact extended beyond her immediate family. Sons-in-law Dave, Maurice, and Liam, daughters-in-law Caroll, Orla, and Sam’s partner Caroline all felt the warmth of her love. Her adoring grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family were recipients of her boundless affection, creating a tapestry of familial love that enriched each generation.
The family has chosen to celebrate Doreen’s life with a reception at St. Nicholas Church in Adare, Co. Limerick, on Monday, January 15th, from 7 pm to 9 pm. The funeral service will take place on Tuesday, January 16th, at 12 noon, providing an opportunity to reflect on her long, wonderful, and rewarding life. The ceremony will be followed by a burial in the Old Cemetery in Adare. Doreen’s journey was characterized by a profound sense of community and a commitment to nurturing relationships. Her home was a sanctuary of love, where laughter, warmth, and shared moments created a haven for family and friends. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we acknowledge the legacy of love and strength she leaves behind.
In times of grief, it is customary to mourn the loss, but in Doreen’s case, it is equally important to celebrate a life that exemplified resilience, kindness, and unwavering love. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were touched by her presence. The closure of Samco on Tuesday, January 16th, serves as a poignant gesture of respect for a woman whose life touched not just her immediate family but also the community around her. It is a reminder of the impact that one person, armed with love and kindness, can have on the lives of many.
As we gather to celebrate Doreen’s life and bid her farewell, let us remember the lessons she imparted through her actions — lessons of love, compassion, and the enduring strength that resides in the human spirit. In honoring her memory, we carry forward the legacy of a life that was, indeed, well-lived. May Doreen Elizabeth Shine rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love that she so generously shared during her time on Earth.