Laois Credit Union pays heartfelt tribute to former director

People First Credit Union paid a touching heartfelt tribute to the late Phil Coughlan on social media.  

The former director and chairperson of the People First Credit Union passed away on Tuesday. 

Mrs Coughlan(Nee Dundon) of Curragha, Mountrath Road, Portlaoise died peacefully at home in the company of her family. 

Her friends and former colleagues at the Credit Union posted tribute. 

“It is with heavy hearts that we learnt of the news of the passing of Phil Coughlan, a remarkable woman and an exemplary volunteer who dedicated so much of her life to Portlaoise Credit Union and People First Credit Union. 

Phil's contributions and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on our community, and we want to take a moment to honour her memory. For many years, Phil served as a dedicated director and Chairperson of our credit union, leading with compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment. Her role was not just a position she held, but a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. 

Through her voluntary service, she demonstrated the true essence of giving back, always striving to make a difference in the lives of others. In a time when the world around us was rapidly changing, Phil was a steady beacon of stability and kindness. She witnessed and guided our credit union through significant transformations, always with a vision of bettering our community. Her gentle soul and absolute grace were evident in every interaction, and she had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued and heard. Phil was a lady in every sense of the word. She approached each day with a kind word and a warm smile, touching the hearts of everyone she met. Her generosity of spirit and her dedication to service are legacies that will continue to inspire us all.

Phil was a true family woman, always getting her loved ones involved with the credit union by helping them open accounts and teaching them the importance of being part of the community. In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with her family. We share in your sorrow and extend our deepest sympathies. Phil's memory will forever be a cherished part of our credit union family, and her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Rest in peace, Phil. Your legacy of kindness, dedication, and community spirit will live on in our hearts and in the work we do each day. Thank you for everything you have given us. You will be remembered always. Your colleagues, friends and community at People First Credit Union Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam,” they wrote.  

Mrs Coughlan is predeceased by her husband John. Dearly loved mother to David, Stephanie (Lewis), Pauline (Mahony) , and Bernadette (Rigney). Cherished grandmother to Lianne, Meghan, Daniel, Aron, Luke, and Harry. Great-grandmother to Cormac, Billy, Faye and Carl. Deeply regretted by her loving family. Sister Gemma McCrohan, brothers Tone Dundon, and Ben Dundon, sisters in law Betty and Geraldine, daughter in law Sharon, sons in law Liam, Des and Shawn, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Reposing at Keegans Funeral Home on Thursday evening from 6 pm until 8 pm. With rosary at 8pm. Removal from her residence on Friday morning at 11.30am to arrive at SS Peter and Paul's Church for 12 noon mass. Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery, Portlaoise.