Elizabeth O’Hare has retired from her position as parish office administrator at St Mary’s Church in Strabane, Tyrone, after 33 years of service starting in 1993. Parishioners, priests and others attended a farewell event at the Melmount Centre in Strabane.

O’Hare began the role after returning from America with her husband Declan in 1993. She applied for the position, which had an accountancy component, and was interviewed and hired by Fr Oliver Crilly, the parish priest at the time. The office started in a small space at the Melmount Centre and expanded over the years.

Her duties included booking weddings, christenings and funerals, maintaining the parish, church and grounds, managing staff, and handling financial records. Tasks shifted from pen and paper to computers. She also assisted the neighbouring parish in Sion Mills.

O’Hare worked alongside Fr Michael Doherty and Orla McCool. With McCool, she managed operations during the Covid period when Masses stopped and attended the office daily. Parishioners left collection envelopes outside the office.

Under Fr Doherty, O’Hare and colleagues cleared a inherited debt through savings, donations and controlled spending, leaving the parish debt-free. When Fr Doherty fell seriously ill, Fr Boland and Fr Gallagher covered duties.

O’Hare stayed on after Fr Doherty’s departure to assist his successor, Fr Sean O’Donnell. She described the transition as a phased retirement.

O’Hare plans to spend more time with her husband, children and grandchildren.