Today we pray for Josie, that she will find the peace and life with God for which her faith and love have prepared her. We also give thanks for her life, that life that began back in County Westmeath as one of seven brothers and sisters. And those who were sadly infirm to travel are praying for us, and for us all, back in Ireland. Think of that young woman working in Dublin and meeting a young man called John, with whom she fell in love and married at Saint Patrick's, Dublin. And unbeknownst to them, they were to spend the greater part of their lives together until, sadly, John died in nineteen ninety-eight. Think of that life of travel that they shared in their early married years, with John during the RAF in Belfast, and serving in Malta, Egypt, and Africa. And how Josie joined him in married quarters in Malta and lived there for three years. It was during this time that Josie socialised with a better class of person, and perhaps the congregation here at Speeds can safely say that I'm referring to the fact that she had tea with a young girl called Princess Elizabeth in Malta, with the other RAF wives.

Josie’s return to England was a slow trip, much to John's amusement, perhaps a little embarrassment. As an RAF wife, she didn't like flying and so had to take the boat home. Josie became a loving mother when she and her husband John welcomed Rose, Dermot, and Terry into the world. Of course, the family expanded with the arrival of their children's partners, and also Josie’s six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Am I right? Yeah.

Josie was proud of the O'Toole dynasty and delighted with what each family member has done with their life. Remember her need for updates on how the children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild were doing? I think also of Josie’s ability to relate to younger family members, her ability to get onto their level and be well informed. Remember her brilliant sense of humour, and those strange and sometimes oddball presents which were an expression of her love.

Think also of what gave Josie’s life enjoyment. First and foremost, you, her family; the telly with the soaps; and a good murder mystery. But most of all, after you, her family, it would be her faith: being part of this parish, helping to build the church, her charitable acts, reciting the rosary, always tuning in to the Angelus, and her visits to the Holy Land. She also loved her home. And out of your love for her, you, her family, helped her to remain there, nursing and staying with her right to the end of her life on earth.

Come to see your part in the story that was Josie’s life, and see in her life an example of a life well lived as a daughter of God in faith. Think of that faith which sustained her during the years without joy, and also of her love for you, her family and friends, which kept her going. Josie was never happier than spending her time with her family, and we pray that she may now be united with all her family, both her relations and that other great family, the family of God. And we pray that she will find our Heavenly Father ready to embrace her in love and peace, alongside His Son and all the saints in the heavenly kingdom.

9th November 1926 - 15th October 2013