The NCWNZ Hutt Valley Branch mourns the loss of Patricia "Paddy" Rosaleen Byrne (3 September 1943 – 24 April 2024). Paddy was a Catholic Women’s League delegate to the Hutt Valley Branch from 1997 until she became an individual member in 2017. Paddy served on the Branch Executive as Treasurer from 2011-2015 and was a member of the Parliamentary Watch Committee 2009-2016. She also volunteered in the National Office, e.g., for the mail out of The Circular.

Quietly determined, Paddy was always helpful, practical and dedicated. Paddy was always in the background – a runner at the national meetings held in Wellington and the Hutt Valley, making sure things happened.

Paddy had a broad world knowledge and held strong opinions. She ensured the voice of Catholic women was heard in responses to Action Items, e.g., abortion law reform. Paddy will always be remembered as the person you could rely on, confide in. A person willing to lend an ear and provide words of wisdom in return. Not judging but caring, a special person who is missed.

To read more articles from The Circular (May-June 2024) issue 647, click on the tag below.