Tributes are pouring in following the death of Sister Colette (Bridget) Hickey, the founder of Edel House in Cork and, until recently, Ireland’s oldest person.

Born in Co Waterford on January 31, 1918, Sr Colette became Ireland’s oldest person at 108, just weeks before her death.

A member of the Good Shepherd Sisters, she founded Edel House in 1972 as an emergency refuge for women and children.

The charity, which began on Dyke Parade and is now based on Grattan Street, has helped thousands of people facing homelessness and hardship over the past five decades.

In a statement shared on social media, Edel House and Good Shepherd Cork described Sr Colette as a ‘beloved member’ of the organisation whose kindness, compassion and dedication touched countless lives.

‘Yesterday, Cork lost a truly remarkable woman,’ the post said.

The organisation said Sr Colette had been a beacon of hope for generations of people facing hardship and praised her vision, faith and commitment to helping others.

Paying tribute to the founder of Edel House, the statement said her legacy would live on through the women, children and families she supported over decades of service.

‘As she would say, “from a very small seed”,’ the post added, referencing the growth of the organisation she established more than 50 years ago.

The organisation extended its condolences to Sr Colette’s family, her fellow sisters and all who knew her, describing her life as one of love, service and compassion.

Sr Colette celebrated her 108th birthday in January.