The funeral of Caldey Island’s oldest resident - well known Miss Rita Cunningham will take place next Friday (March 21) at the Abbey Church.

Ninety-five-year-old Rita sadly passed away on Tuesday, March 4 at her home on Caldey Island just off Tenby, where she had lived for over 40 years.

Rita leaves to mourn her sisters; Margaret and Michelle, also her brothers; Keith and Peter.

She will be sadly missed by her family, friends and the community on Caldey Island.

The funeral service will take place on March 21 at The Abbey Church, Caldey Island at 9.30 am followed by interment.

A boat will be leaving Tenby Harbour on the morning of Friday, March 21 at 8.30 am and returning back to Tenby at 11.15 am (weather permitting).

If you wish to attend Rita’s funeral service, please contact via email: [email protected] as spaces on the boat are limited.

There will be family flowers only, if you wish to make a donation in memory of Rita please forward to The Wildlife Trust at: www.wildlifetrusts.org

Funeral arrangements are being conducted by E.C. Thomas and Son Funeral Directors Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH (Tel: 01834 831876).

Originally from Liverpool, Rita had a long and varied life from Carmelite nun at Bridell carmel through to IT manager at a paper manufacturer in Cardiff.

She settled on Caldey and lived on the island for over 40 years where she made an invaluable contribution to everything from buildings maintenance and monitoring the water supply, through to St Philomena’s guesthouse, grounds maintenance and the making of perfume and honey.

She also shared her musical talents by teaching young people on the island how to play the piano.

Rita Caldey
When she turned 95 last November, Rita received dozens of cards and social media messages from all over the world, which reflect how much she was loved. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. (Caldey/Facebook)

Father Jan Rossey, the Abbot of Caldey Abbey said: “Rita was a faithful member of the island community and was a constant re-assuring presence throughout my time here.

“She attended Mass every day come rain and shine and was the church organist for many years. We will miss her greatly.”

A spokesperson for Caldey continued: “Although she enjoyed the peace and tranquility of the island she was a very sociable person and loved to join other islanders for meals and was always ready to chat to visitors, often sitting outside the Post Office to share her stories of the island with a keen sense of humour and a twinkle in her eye.

“Rita was also well known by people in Tenby where she often stayed and was warmly welcomed.

“Rita was a true islander and was always ready to help others. Many people who stayed for a few days will remember her being ready to help to take their luggage to and from the boats on her mini-tractor.

“When she turned 95 last November, she received dozens of cards and social media messages from all over the world, which reflect how much she was loved. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her,” they added.