Family of Carlow pensioner killed after collision with van say there is ‘no resentment’ towards the driver

Those words were spoken on behalf of Agnes Broderick, the Carlow woman who died after she was hit by a van in Carlow Town last week.

Agnes Broderick née Harney of Brownshill Avenue, Carlow died following a collision with a van at approximately 4.30pm on Thursday June 27 in a private car park in Presentation Place, which is adjacent to the Cathedral in Carlow town.

Emergency services rushed to the scene of the accident and brought Agnes, who was aged in her 80s, to St. Luke’s General Hospital Kilkenny with serious injuries where she sadly later died.

The mourners at Agnes’ funeral mass today in the Church of the Holy Family in Askea, Carlow were told that if Agnes were here today, she would want the driver of the van to know that accidents can happen to anyone.

“The sad and sudden death of Agnes brought a great sense of sadness and disbelief. How could it happen to somebody so gentle and so lovely?,” asked Parish Priest Fr Tom Little.

“We would just like to express our deep sympathy to Agnes’ family, especially her sons and her daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren, to her brothers and sisters as well.

“But Agnes would be the first here today to say to the man that was driving the vehicle that she holds no resentment or no bitterness or no hatred towards him. Accidents can happen to any of us and she would be the first to say that and she would certainly believe it.

“Her family would like people to know that too. That an accident can happen and all of us, when we get up each day, have many opportunities to express our love and certainly Agnes would want us to do that always.”

Fr Little added that Agnes has now been reunited with her beloved husband, Pat, who passed away nine years ago.

“I know for the last nine years, since Pat left, he was a great loss to Agnes. The joys she had of going for walks with him, the joys she had of sharing the beauty of nature, the joys of friendship and love that they had for each other and for family was really remarkable.

“It was such a wonderful friendship and love and our prayer for her today is that she is reunited with Pat and with all her loved ones, her parents and her brother Hugh who have gone before her.”

Agnes adored her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. That love became even clearer as two of her young grandchildren made their way up to the alter and placed a picture of Agnes and all her family on her coffin, so that she could be with her family together one last time.

“The family photo of Agnes was so important to her,” said Fr Little. “Agnes was filled with love for everyone, but especially for her family. She loved each and every child completely and equally. She welcomed each one with open arms. ‘A cup of tea, a slice of apple tart, another slice of tart or a scone?’ were words that she always welcomed people with into her home.”

As Agnes’ funeral mass came to an end, her daughter, Rosey, took a moment to thank everyone who was by Agnes’ side in her last few hours.

“I want to take the opportunity to thank a few people,” said an emotional Rosey. “We would like to thank all of those who were on the scene of the accident, those who alerted the emergency services, the ambulance, the Gardaí, St. Luke’s Hospital and all those who gave mam such great care in her final hours.

“We would also like to thank Bennekerry Active Retirement, the ICA and all the local people who are involved in the Guard of Honour today.”

Since the news of Agnes’ sudden death broke, tributes have poured in for a woman who was a much-loved member of the local community.

“I would like to offer my deepest sympathies to the family. I know the family very well so I offer my deepest condolences to them at this very sad time,” said Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Cllr Fergal Browne.

“She was very involved in the community so everyone is devastated by the news. It is absolutely dreadful.”

One mourner wrote on RIP.ie: “Sincere condolences to all the Broderick family on the very sad passing of Agnes. I had the pleasure to work with her many years ago she was a real lady and an excellent nurse. Many happy memories of her.”

Another mourner added: “I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your precious mother, Agnes. My deepest condolences. “What a lovely lady Agnes was! A truly genuine person. I have fond memories of working with Agnes in the SHH. “There are no words, but please know that I am thinking of you all at this heart-breaking time. Rest in eternal peace in your heavenly home.”

Agnes has left behind her heartbroken sons and daughters Trish, Rosey, Helen, Connor, Karl and Bernie. Her brothers, sisters, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.