Kitty Jeffery, Ireland’s Oldest Person, Passes Away at 109
Kitty Jeffery, widely believed to have been Ireland’s oldest person, has sadly passed away at the age of 109. She died peacefully in Cork University Hospital (CUH) on Thursday, surrounded by her loving family.
Kitty Jeffery took on the remarkable title of Ireland’s oldest person after the passing of Mairin Hughes in September last year. Ms. Hughes, who was born on May 22, 1914, held the title until she passed away at her nursing home in Dublin. Once Kitty celebrated her 109th birthday in November, she officially became Ireland’s oldest person.
Ms. Jeffery’s father, James Clancy, emigrated to Australia in the 1800s but returned to Ireland and settled in Glenville Manor in north Cork. He married Anne Mills, and they had two children, Bill and Kitty. Kitty was born in Glenville in 1914, just before the outbreak of World War I.
Despite being raised as a member of the Church of Ireland in a predominantly Catholic area, Kitty enjoyed a happy childhood due to excellent community relations and her progressive school, which embraced a model of education that brought different faiths together.
Throughout her long life, Kitty witnessed significant events in Irish history, such as the Irish War of Independence and the Civil War. She even recalled hearing the news of Michael Collins’ tragic death in 1922. Kitty had a firsthand account of a night during the War of Independence when a British soldier approached their farm looking for local volunteers. Luckily, the soldier rode off when he was informed that no one was present. The Clancy family was fortunate to have the support of their community during turbulent times.
In her teenage years, Kitty and her family relocated to Turner’s Cross in Cork City. She attended the School of Commerce, where she completed a secretarial course. Kitty worked in various places in the city, including as a secretary in Jacksons, a well-known gown shop in the Queen’s Old Castle. It was during this time that she met and married George Jeffery.
The couple settled in Cloyne, where they had four children: Ivor, Norman, George, and Anne. Unfortunately, Norman passed away in 2022, leaving a deep void in the family. Kitty became a well-known figure in the community, actively participating in organizations like the Irish Countrywomen’s Association and the Mother’s Union. She also gained fame for her delicious chutneys, which she would often sell at local country markets.
For most of her later years, Kitty resided in Cloyne, receiving loving care from her family. She is survived by her children and four grandchildren.
The funeral arrangements for Kitty Jeffery have yet to be announced, allowing her family and friends time to mourn their loss and make the necessary preparations to bid her a final farewell.
Rest in peace, Kitty Jeffery, Ireland’s oldest person. Your remarkable journey and contributions to your community will always be remembered.
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