Family of Ireland’s oldest person confirm funeral details as tributes pour for ‘wonderful lady’ after death aged 109

THE heartbroken family of Ireland’s oldest woman has confirmed her funeral details.

Eileen ‘Nell Hynes’, who died at the age of 109, was from Cullenwaine, near Moneygall, in Co Offaly.

Nell was older than the State itself, and had witnessed the reigns of five British monarchs, ten Popes and 20 US Presidents.

When she celebrated her 100th birthday, she received the Centenary Bounty – a gift and personally signed letter from the President of Ireland – and a commemorative coin every year.

Mrs Hynes passed away peacefully and surrounded by her family on Thursday June 4, 2026.

Announcing the death her family paid an emotional tribute to the well-liked elderly lady.

The family said: “Eileen was Ireland’s oldest resident and lived a long and remarkable life guided by her deep faith, strong work ethic and devotion to her family.”

Eileen is predeceased by her husband, William; her daughter-in-law; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and all her siblings.

She is “sadly missed” by her ten children, her daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and relatives.

And the death notices revealed Eileen is also sadly missed by her close friend Fr. Michael Enright, good neighbours and a wide circle of friends

The family confirmed she is reposing in Tierney’s Funeral Home in Roscrea today from 4pm, with removal at 8pm arriving in St Ita’s Church.

The funeral mass will take place tomorrow at 1.30pm, followed by burial in Dungar cemetery.

Mourners were asked to donate to the Offaly Hospice instead of flowers, as they wished to have family flowers only.

Tributes have steadily poured in for the remarkable woman following her passing on Thursday.

People across the country have rushed to express their condolences at the death of Ireland’s oldest person.

Friends and neighbours have also been sharing fond memories of “Nell” in recent days.

One person wrote: “A marvelous woman who had a long and healthy life raising a lovely family, may Eileen rest in heavenly peace Amen.”

Another shared: “An amazing lady, who lived an extraordinarily long life and was blessed with a most devoted caring family.”

A third penned: “I have many happy memories of this wonderful lady with a beautiful smile and a twinkle in her eye.

“It was a privilege and pleasure to know her. May her kind and gentle soul Rest in Peace.”

Another added: “Your Mam enjoyed the simple things in a life well lived…
proud of her wonderful family, loved by all who’s paths she crossed. May the Angels Welcome Her.”

A fifth said: “What a wonderful and inspirational lady, whose life touched so many generations in so many significant and simple ways.”

Staff from the Day Hospital, MRH Tullamore added: “She had a truely remarkable,long life. We will always remember her in the Day Hospital, on her regular visits.

“She prayed for us and never forgot the box of Milk Tray! Her kindness much appreciated.”

And staff at a Co Clare primary school added: “Deepest and heartfelt sympathies from the children in Rang a dó Cratloe NS to all of Nell’s family, especially our own pupils who are great grand nephews and a great grandniece.

“We have learned all about Nell and have remembered her in our prayers. May she rest in heavenly peace after her long life, well lived.”