A Life of Quiet Courage: Sr. Mary Lucey’s Journey of Service in Zambia

Born in County Cork, Ireland, in May 1944, Sr. Mary grew up with a deep curiosity about the wider world. As a student, she was captivated by missionaries who returned home from developing countries, bringing with them stories of struggle, hope, and commitment.

“I had a great interest and wonder about the wider world. I loved to meet missionaries who were home from many developing countries. I was fascinated by their stories and their zeal,” says Sr. Mary

At the time, she never imagined herself following in their footsteps. “I didn’t think I could ever be one of them!”

After finishing school, Sr. Mary joined the Presentation Sisters, a teaching congregation founded over 250 years ago by Nano Nagle, who was an Irish religious sister also from Cork. Trained in science, Sr Mary spent nearly 20 years teaching, expecting that education would remain her primary vocation.

That changed in 1992, when she was offered what was intended to be a three-year mission in Zambia.

“Finally in 1992 an opportunity was offered to me to spend three years in Zambia and I spent 31 years in Southern Province.”

Sr. Mary served in Zambia’s Southern Province, first in Kalomo and later in Pemba. Her early years coincided with a severe drought. In 1993, Kalomo faced widespread food shortages, with relief coordinated through government channels and international agencies such as PAM (Programme Against Malnutrition) and CARE International.

Emergency aid saved lives, but Sr. Mary became convinced that long-term solutions land, water, housing, and local ownership were essential for lasting change.

In Pemba, Sr. Mary worked closely with communities to identify needs and solutions.

“While I was really a Parish Sister, I was working on the needs of the people with the people.”

When she saw that many families had no land of their own, she helped initiate a model village project grounded in self-sufficiency. Land was purchased, boreholes were sunk, and clean water made accessible. Eight families were selected, each receiving one hectare of land, and together they built simple but solid homes.

“We involved the people in every step with one builder.”

Over time, the initiative expanded. Two further housing developments were completed, eventually supporting 24 families, all of whom now belonged to a cooperative and held legal title deeds.

“It was hard work many journeys to the Ministry of Lands in Lusaka but we usually forgot the challenges when the end result happened.”

The projects were funded entirely by friends and family across several countries a testament to the trust Sr. Mary inspired and the collective belief in what communities could achieve together.

Among her most treasured memories are the days when families received the keys to their new homes.

“Wonderful memories of the days when the keys were presented to the new owners seeing their joy as they walked with dignity and pride, knowing what we could achieve together.”

Sr. Mary also founded a women’s craft group, watched it grow in confidence and skill.

“Starting a craft group with the women and seeing them develop and continue to this day brings me joy.”

Life in Zambia also brought moments of celebration and solidarity Christmas gatherings, St Patrick’s Day events, and St Brigid’s Day celebrations at the Irish Embassy, shared with missionaries from across the country.

In 2024, Sr. Mary Lucey’s decades of service were formally recognised by the Zambian state. She was awarded the Presidential Insignia for Meritorious Achievement by President Hakainde Hichilema, a rare honour reflecting the lasting impact of her work on communities across Southern Province.

Her recognition stands alongside that of two other Irish missionaries whose contributions have shaped Zambia’s social and educational landscape:

• Sr. Lucy O’Brien was awarded the Order of Distinguished Service, First Division in 2004 by Zambia’s late President Levy Mwanawasa, in recognition of her lifetime of service to the women of Zambia.
• Fr. Michael Kelly received the first-ever Zambian Presidential Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution to Education in 2011, followed by the Irish Presidential Distinguished Service Award for the Irish Abroad in 2012.

Together, these honours reflect not only individual commitment, but the deep and enduring relationship between Zambia and Irish missionaries who worked quietly, consistently, and in partnership with local communities.

Throughout her years in Zambia, the Irish Embassy was a vital source of support.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the Irish Embassy who were always there for us especially when we needed support.”

She recalls the difficult days of 1998, when two Presentation Sisters died in a car accident and repatriation had to be negotiated, and again during the COVID-19 pandemic, when reassurance and guidance were crucial.

Now living in County Kerry, Sr. Mary continues to give back. “I’m old now,” she says, “but I do speak when asked to school groups and others.”

She volunteers at a day care center for older people and remains closely connected to Zambia. One hope still close to her heart is helping communities find sustainable markets for the crafts produced by women she once worked alongside.

Sr. Mary Lucey’s story is not one of headlines, but of presence showing up, listening, and believing deeply in shared effort.

Her life’s work reflects a simple but powerful truth:

“There is so much possible if only the sum of our years were not ‘80 if we are strong.”

Learn More

For more insight into Sr. Mary Lucey’s life and work, listen to her interview with Radio Kerry:
https://www.radiokerry.ie/podcasts/saturday-supplement/saturday-supplement-august-30th-2025-449626