06/27/2026
In Loving Memory of Loretta McLaughlin Sheerin
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved friend and sister in Hibernian service, Loretta McLaughlin Sheerin.
Loretta was a devoted wife to James Sheerin, a cherished member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Cardinal Glennon Division II; a loving mother and grandmother whose greatest joy was her family; treasured daughters in Tricia Cash and Sheila McCrary, Missouri State President of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians and President of the St. Brendan the Navigator Division IV; and a faithful friend whose kindness, compassion, and unwavering spirit touched countless lives.
After a long and courageous battle, Loretta entered into eternal rest today, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
In 2020, during one of the most uncertain times in our world, Loretta's vision, determination, and faith led to the founding of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, St. Brendan the Navigator Division IV. As its Charter Foundress, she planted seeds of sisterhood, faith, charity, and Irish heritage that continue to flourish today. She believed in bringing women together—not simply as members of an organization, but as sisters united in service to God, family, community, and country.
Her influence cannot be measured merely by the division she helped establish, but by the countless women she inspired to lead, to serve, to laugh, to grow in faith, and to find lifelong friendships. Her example reminded us that true leadership is found in humility, generosity, and love.
Though our hearts ache with her absence, we take comfort knowing that the foundation she built is strong. Every act of charity, every new member welcomed, every prayer offered, and every life touched through St. Brendan the Navigator Division will stand as a living testament to her vision and her enduring spirit.
We ask all Hibernians, family, and friends to join us in lifting up James, Sheila, the entire Sheerin and McCrary families, and all who loved Loretta in prayer during this difficult time.
As we remember our dear sister, we share the Prayer of St. Brendan the Navigator—a prayer that so beautifully reflects the journey of faith she embraced throughout her life:
Prayer of St. Brendan the Navigator
Help me to journey beyond the familiar
and into the unknown.
Give me the faith to leave old ways
and break fresh ground with You.
Christ of the mysteries, I trust You
to be stronger than each storm within me.
I will trust in the darkness and know
that my times, even now, are in Your hand.
Tune my spirit to the music of heaven,
and somehow, make my obedience count for You.
Amen.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23
May perpetual light shine upon Loretta, and may the angels lead her into Paradise. Though she has completed her earthly journey, her legacy of faith, service, and sisterhood will continue to guide us for years to come.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.
May her soul be at the right hand of God.
