Family and friends remember Josephine (Josie) Purcell (née Clancy) as a gentle, smiling soul whose warmth made people feel instantly at ease. Originally from Quilty, Co. Clare, and having spent treasured years in London and Cork before making her home in Carrigeenlea, Tramore, Josie carried a kindness that travelled with her wherever life brought her. She passed peacefully and smiling in University Hospital Waterford on Tuesday 20th January 2026, and those who loved her take comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her beloved husband John, her twelve siblings and her son-in-law Eddie. Above all else, Josie was devoted to her daughter Patricia and was a proud and loving nanny to Sinéad and Laura, and a cherished great-granny to Harry, Skye and Ollie, holding family at the very centre of her world.

In the many heartfelt words shared after her passing, the same message shines through time and again: Josie was a true lady in every sense. One tribute read, “Josie was a lovely gentle lady, may she rest in peace.” Another lovingly recalled her Quilty roots, saying, “Many the laughs she had here in Clare she will be missed.” Those who met her in Tramore remembered her constant brightness, writing, “She was a beautiful lady, always smiling when we met her,” while another described her as a “beautiful, gentle, smiling, mum, nanny and great granny.” And in perhaps the most fitting line of all, one condolence captured what so many felt: “Josie will be remembered for her generosity and welcoming smile.” Her legacy is one of love, laughter and a softness of spirit that will remain close to her family forever.

Late of Carrigeenlea , Tramore, Co. Waterford. Formerly of London and Quilty, Co.Clare. Josie passed peacefully and smiling in University Hospital Waterford on Tuesday the 20th of January 2026. RIP.