Lena’sSweetShopwasabeloved Goreyinstitutionformanyyears
SHE was known to generations of schoolchildren in Gorey, especially the pupils who attended the former CBS secondary school and called to her daily.
The passing of Lena Tomkins of Garden City, and formerly of Lena’s Sweet Shop, St Michael’s Place, was met with deep sadness but stirred many fond childhood memories for many of those who attended her funeral.
She turned 90 last summer, and celebrated the occasion with her family and friends with a party in the garden at her home where she spent many happy days tending to her flowers, her shrubs, and lawns. The garden on her quarter acre site often attracted many compliments from family, friends, and neighbours.
Lena was born in 1926, daughter of William and Anne from McDermott Street. She lived most of her adult life in Garden City, living independently until last November when she went into hospital.
In November 1958, she became the proud owner of Lena’s Sweet Shop which was located across from the CBS secondary school, where Breakers snooker club is now.
She was so well known to the pupils, that they felt she was part of the school community, and when a class reunion was held recently, she was invited to attend. She was unable to go but was delighted when they presented her with a bouquet of flowers.
She ran the shop until the mid-1990s, and at the age of 65, she retired. The school was gone by then, as the three secondary schools amalgamated to become Gorey Community School.
Many hours were then spent in her beloved garden. During this time, much appreciated help was given by Theresa and Nancy, and she also had wonderful neighbours who looked in on her daily.
She was the beloved sister of Nancy, and the late John, and is sadly missed by her sister, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, and friends.
Her Funeral Mass was held at St Michael’s Church, Gorey, on Monday, January 16, followed by cremation in Mount Jerome Crematorium. Her ashes were later brought back to Gorey and interred in the family plot.
Theresa, Nancy and their families have thanked the staff at Wexford and Gorey hospitals, the palliative care staff, home help, Lloyd’s Pharmacy and close neighbours for all their care and support.