Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, one of Ireland’s most respected social justice campaigners and founder of Focus Ireland, has died at the age of 86. Passing away this morning, Monday November 3rd, at St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown after a period of illness.
Affectionately known as Sr Stan, she dedicated her life to supporting the homeless, immigrants, and those living in disadvantaged communities. The Religious Sisters of Charity, of which she was a member, described her as “a powerful voice for compassion, equality and systemic change throughout her life.”
Born Treasa Kennedy in 1939 near Lispole, Co Kerry, she joined the Sisters of Charity at 18, taking the name Stanislaus. Early in her career she worked in Kilkenny with Bishop Peter Birch, helping to establish one of Ireland’s first meals-on-wheels services and a network of social supports.
Her move to Dublin in the early 1980s led to the foundation of Focus Point, now Focus Ireland, in 1985 after her research into homelessness among women. The organisation has since become one of the country’s leading charities tackling homelessness.
In a statement, Focus Ireland said they are “deeply saddened and heartbroken” by her death, describing her as “a visionary, a tireless advocate, and a compassionate force for change whose legacy will forever shape the heart and values of Focus Ireland.”
She later founded the Immigrant Council of Ireland, advocating for the rights of newcomers to Irish society, and publicly supported marriage equality in 2015.
Acting President of the University of Limerick, Professor Shane Kilcommins, paid tribute to her legacy, describing her as “a shining example of charity, of goodness and an inspiration to many.”
He noted that her work with Focus Ireland and the Immigrant Council made her “a household name” and recalled that UL conferred upon her an honorary Doctor of Letters in August 2022 in recognition of her lifelong contribution to Irish society.
Sr Stanislaus Kennedy will be remembered as a woman of faith, courage and vision – a compassionate leader whose legacy will continue to inspire generations working for a fairer, more caring Ireland.