Family and friends remember Maureen Hayes as a woman of warmth, wit and generosity, a much-loved mother, teacher, neighbour and friend. Born in Ballacolla, Co. Laois, and later making her home in Sweetbriar Lawn, Tramore, Maureen never lost her Laois charm or love of a good conversation. As a national teacher, she made a lasting impression on many young lives and is remembered as someone who was never afraid to be playful or kind, making learning fun. One former pupil shared, “She made every child feel special and every lesson feel like an adventure.” She had a flair for fashion, a love for company and a rare gift for kindness that stretched from the classroom to the community. “She had such an inclusive nature, always making us feel welcome in your home and treating us like family.”
Even in her final weeks, Maureen’s humour and dignity remained intact. Surrounded by her children, grandchildren and extended family, she passed away peacefully in her home, a place filled with memories, music, visitors and love. Her presence brightened every room, and her memory will echo through Tramore and Ballacolla alike. A past colleague wrote, “She always brought good humour and affection wherever she went.” Another remembered, “Your mum was an absolute legend, a true lady and loved by many.” We invite all who knew Maureen to remember her with fondness, gratitude and a smile.
Late of Sweetbriar Lawn , Tramore, Co. Waterford. Formerly of Ballacolla, Co. Laois. Maureen passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family at home on Sunday the 9th of November 2025. RIP.
Predeceased by her beloved husband PJ; her brothers: Paddy and Son, and her sisters Cecilia and Katie.
Maureen will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her heartbroken children John, Conor and Ciara, her adoring grandchildren Jack, Annabel, Conor, Oscar and Killian; her brother Tom; her sister Breeda; her daughters-in-law Andrea and Bernie and her son-in-law Gary. Maureen will be fondly remembered by all her nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, extended family, relatives, wonderful neighbours, and many friends.
The Hayes family would particularly like to thank The Waterford Palliative Care Team, the Hospice Night Nurses and all of those who cared for her in recent months.
May her gentle soul rest in peace.
Maureen’s reposal will take place in Falconer’s Funeral Home, Riverstown, Tramore X91TW21 on Wednesday the 12th of November from 6pm until 8pm.
All are welcome and refreshments will be served throughout.
Maureen’s Requiem Mass will take place on Thursday the 13th of November at 10am in The Church of the Holy Cross, Tramore, Co. Waterford, after which Maureen will be laid to rest in St. Declan’s Cemetery, Tramore, Co. Waterford. Anyone wishing to attend Maureen’s mass can be viewed online by using the link below.
House Strictly Private Please.
Maureen’s Funeral Cortege will walk from her family home through Sweetbriar Lawn at approximately 9:40 am and up Summerhill and past Tramore Credit Union to arrive for her Requiem Mass at 10am.
Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to the Waterford Hospice.
Waterford Hospice Donation Link
Book of Condolence
Anyone wishing to leave a message of condolence can do so below.