Carmel Mary Delaney

Kevin, Katie, Mike, Chris and Sean,

We are devastated to hear of your loss and pray that you might find some way to ease this pain.

I owe much of my journey to Carmel; she guided me not only to gain acceptance as an international student in a US college (where I met my now-wife), but also as a wonderful example of a good parent and friend. Carmel’s many accomplishments (among many others) lay in the plethora of lives she touched as an educator, a counselor, a businesswoman, an athlete, a Catholic, a loving wife, and above all, a mother.

I have the privilege of growing up for a short time with Kevin, Katie and Mike, who are huge compliments to the parenting of both Carmel and Chris. It is not easy to raise kids across many continents, all of whom have varied and wonderful talents. She did so beautifully, and touched also the lives of the many friends of her children. If you consider the number of places she and Chris have lived, the list of people whose lives were touched, as mine was, is likely endless.

Deepest condolences, our thoughts and prayers remain with you.

Carmel - you are so loved and will be missed in this world. While your family will miss you most, there isn’t a doubt in my mind that there are many more individuals and families that loved you and will miss you dearly too. You are a blessing to this world that wasn’t ready to be parted from you.

We will pray for you as I am sure you will for all of us in heaven.

All the love,
Danny, Holly, Charlie & Minnie

Chris and all the Delaneys, we were so sorry to hear about Carmel, a huge shock for everyone. We had a fantastic time with her at our wedding last year and so delighted we have such great memories of it. Thinking of you all at this very sad time.

Gemma and Robert (Clerihan)

Dearest Chris and Family,

Our hearts and minds have been with you over these past weeks and we send all our love.

Carmel was our much loved friend and neighbour here in Sydney and injected such warmth, enthusiasm, humour and a sense of “can-do” into our lives. We will treasure happy memories of dog walks, sailing and drinks, book club, parties and a NYC send off for Cal who she helped launch.

Thoughts and prayers with you all.
Lots of love
Caz, Pip, Callum, Luke and Charlie

Dearest Delaney Family,

Our sincere Condolences to hear of this tragic news of Carmel. We are so incredibly sorry.

We have always kept the wonderful, loving, fun memories spent with her and your precious family. Memories made from the huge Thanksgiving pumpkin in KSA to the fantastic family dinner we shared in Philadelphia with enjoyable visits to Dubai. We hold them dear to our hearts and pray for you all during this difficult time.

May you Rest in Peace Carmel.

Forever in our Hearts,
The Alharbi Family

When the Delaney's moved to Sydney, Carmel was nothing but welcoming and happily took up the role of second mum to me and a lot of Kevin's other friends. Happily having us over for dinner or weekends without a second thought. I always knew I had a place with the Delaney's and Carmel was a very large part of that. She truly was a pure soul and she will be sorely missed!

Mom, I miss you, I will miss you a lot here.
And we all miss you here already.

I love you and I have loved you every day since 2009 when I had the chance to live a stay in the USA. I loved so much sharing all the moments together with the whole family in Australia, China, France in Champagne... I have so many memories together. Know that you have always inspired me and I have always learned a lot thanks to our exchanges.

You leave a big void in my heart. Thank you for opening your arms to me, thank you for your kindness.

I promised I would take care of my brothers and sister and also Charlotte. I would continue to travel with Dad Chris's bag and I will be happy to spend more time with Dad.

Rest in peace Carmel
Je t’embrasse Carmel et je te fais un gros câlin comme tu sais les faire.
Avec tout mon amour, ton fils.

Antoine et toute la famille Launay

To Chris and the whole Delaney family,

We were absolutely devastated to learn of Carmel’s passing. Very few individuals can have such an impact on you, despite a short time with them. Carmel was one such individual. We will always remember how Carmel treated and welcomed all of us, like we were long lost sons in her home. We would have lengthy, personable and worldly conversations with Carmel at any hour, and she would always go to extra lengths to make sure we were fed, cleaned and had a bed to sleep on. One of our fondest memories was learning about and celebrating thanksgiving with the Delaneys in Australia. This was a cherished time, only possible due to Carmels warmth, generosity and loving personality. From then we were family, and that family extends across borders. Your Australian family is with you all in spirit today as you remember Carmel. In these dark times celebrate the bright light that Carmel was to the world.

Sending lots of love, thought and prayers to you all.

Love Sebastian Obeid, Chris Wassif, Daniel Lai, Danny Lim and Alistair Kadrian

Dear Carmel, we will sorely miss your boundless energy and the kindness of your smiles. Only at a great height is there enough room for wide wings. May you fly with the angels. My sincere condolences to your family. Tyrell

When Carmel joined the Brussels Women's Club in 2021, it was clear she was someone who would make a big difference at the Club. Carmel joined the Committee in 2022 as Website Director, a brand new role which she enjoyed thoroughly, especially as it entailed a lot of new beginnings and challenges. Carmel’s enthusiasm and dedication to the role was evident as she worked with great gusto to enhance the online presence of our community.

A passionate hiker, she joined and led many of the BWC walking groups, also launching the popular ‘Exploring Brussels on Foot’. It was through these activities that Carmel discovered how the Club could nurture both her intellectual curiosity and love for new challenges, like bridge and knitting.

With her background in corporate marketing, Carmel’s strategic mindset was invaluable to the Committee. She was always focused on the long-term vision of the Club and worked diligently to ensure it thrived. What set Carmel apart, however, was her unwavering positivity and her ability to turn challenges into opportunies for improvement.

Her life motto, "Bloom where you are planted," embodied her ability to adapt, grow, and thrive wherever life took her. Carmel’s presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire us all. Rest in peace, Carmel.

The BWC Committee: Boff Muir, Carol Jones, Lilian Eilers, Morag Baker and Sarah Hannant

Dear Chris, dear family,
My deepest sympathy for your tragic and untimely loss.
The last time I spoke with Carmel she was telling me with her characteristic enthusiasm all her plans for life in NYC and for your retirement, and because of this senseless act ,you are deprived of that ! I am so sorry.
We all in the B W Club (to which she gave so much time and energy) retain the memory of that energy and love for others. She will live in our hearts.

She rests in peace and will rise in glory,

Margaret

As editor of the Club monthly magazine, I have worked closely with Carmel (our website manager) at the end of the month for the last three years. For a few days each month we have been ‘joined at the hip’ and along the way have shared the Joys (and frustrations) of meeting the deadline, even though we were often in different time zones.
We have also shared many jokes about the Frustrations (and joys) of having unruly curly hair!
I miss you greatly, dear friend. RIP Carmel, our ‘Selfie Queen’.

It was with shock and sadness that we learned of Carmel’s passing.
We offer Chris and family our deepest and sincere sympathy on the loss of a beautiful lady whom we managed to spend some time with during her Dublin visit in August 22 with Jimmy ,her Father.
Although the time spent in their company was limited we realise how special and caring a person she was who had empathy with everyone she encountered.
Our prayers are with you all.
Bobbie,Gillian and Robert
Bobbie Beckett

Very few people come into our lives for a lifetime, Carmel was one of those friends. I met Carmel in KSA more than 20 years ago and we've remained close ever since raising our families, sharing our joys and hardships. Although we didn't see each other as often as we'd like, Carmel rarely missed an opportunity to call when she landed stateside. We shared too many memories to enumeriate and her tireless attitude made her one of a kind. I will miss her everyday. She was one of the most special women that I was fortunate enough to call a dear friend.

“As soon as we move to a new country I search out and join a walking group” one of the first things Carmel said to me when we met on one of our Brussels walks a few years ago. She had such enthusiasm and joy in life, it is incomprehensible that she is not with us any longer. I will miss her great hugs. My heartfelt condolences to her family and friends 💔.

Our dear friend Carmel, our hearts overflow with sadness but the precious memories together is what makes it bearable. Those fun times on the boat, our trips away and that magical holiday we spent with our families in New York and Windham. Your gift of a beautiful silver bowl with it's inscription "Together with friends and family is always the happiest place to be." Those words embody your spirit—your warmth, your love for bringing people together, your gift for making everyone feel like family. Your legacy lives on through the countless lives you've touched and the beautiful family you've nurtured. Your light will forever shine in our hearts. Rest in Peace Carmel xxx

Dear Chris,
Our sincere condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Our hearts ache for you. Please know we are here for you when you are ready.
Dhaval and I will always treasure the moments we shared with Carmel and you, whether hiking, exploring auction houses, or simply enjoying a glass of wine over dinner. We had such wonderful plans of getting together when you returned to the US.
Carmel had a way of making life feel lighter, filling the room with warmth and laughter, and making even the simplest moments special. The untimely loss of Carmel has left a huge hole in all our hearts. We will miss our wonderful, charming, and dear friend. May she Rest in Peace.

Dear Chris,Sean,Katy,Kevin and Michael
We were so terribly shocked and saddened to hear about Carmel. Although it has been 10 years since we last saw her in Sydney and she was not in our lives for all that long she touched us all with her wonderful warmth, boundless energy and can do attitude to life. We will always have the memory of our fun ski trip with Michael and her and some of the other Redlands families in January 2014. She has touched all our hearts she was just a very special person.
Our deepest sympathies and love to you all.
Justine, Paul, Nick, Sammy and Sasha Jansz.

My memories go back to when we were all children and "the americans" were coming home for a visit. Carmel must have been about 11 or 12 and I was only little. In Foxfield we were playing party games.
Pass the orange( in crook of your neck) and pass the match box nose to nose.( back when all the adults smoked)
It was such good innocent fun and I remember us all laughing til we cried., followed ny Cake

I already miss your lovely smile and wicked wit Carmel. Taken too soon
May you Rest in Peace

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal,
Love leaves a memory No one can steal"
From a headstone in Ireland
Comhbhrón mo chroí leat

I have not known Carmel for a very long time, but she made quite an impression.I will remember her as a charming, good natured and open person. She organized happy walks through Brussels, was ready to help whenever help was needed at the Brussel Women's Club, or elsewhere, and very good at IT! Encouraging with a smiling face. I will really miss her.
I also leave a special thought for Chris, who saw what no one should ever have to see.


Barbara van Oudgaarden

In loving memory of Carmel Delaney, My deepest sympathies to Chris and his family. Heartbroken for your loss. Carmel was one of those rare people who was amazing at everything she did. And she did it always with that wonderful smile.
She will be so missed. Love to you all. Jenny

I can still not comprehend that Carmel, her beautiful smile, and her vibrant personality are lost to us forever.
I met her on one of the walking tours of the Brussels Women's Club which she loved so much and frequently attended. It was a pleasure to be with her, her positive attitude was contagious.
She later on organized a walk through Brussels, discovering the beautiful parts of this town. That was her nature, being active, motivating others to do interesting things together. We will miss her!
My heartfelt condolences to the entire Delaney family.

CArmel was a fantastic, energetic, enthusiastic leader of our Monday walking group. Full of ideas and chat, speaking so warmly of her family. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you come to terms with her untimely death. Rest in peace

I met Carmel several years back at the Mountain when I was asked to notarize some paperwork for her house here.
Several times later, Carmel would call me in HR when the family was together and the mountain music just a little loud to bear, asking in the gentlest, apologetic tone if there was any way I could have the music toned down a bit. Of course, I was always happy to help! I would run into Carmel with Laura/ or Laura and Bill at either Wine School or most recently last summer on the Mulligan's deck! We would talk and catch up a bit. I was looking forward to seeing her upon her return to the States this year when she would be spending more time in Windham. My heart remains with Chris and their children during these unfathomable days. Rest in Peace Carmel. You are missed by so many!

Carmel's commitment to the Brussels Women's Club was amazing. We will all miss her smiles, her laughter and her willingness to help wherever she was, always finding time for us in her busy schedule.

Dear Chris,

Even after almost two weeks, we still cannot comprehend that Carmel will not be around anymore. We vividly remember the dinner at our place in Munich last November. We had fun, and Carmel was vibrant, full of positive energy, and beautiful. She talked about all the things you wanted to do upon your retirement. Sadly, it shall not be. The senselessness and tragedy of her death is mind-numbing.

Our thoughts are with you, Chris. You have lost your wife and partner who made it all possible for you and your family. She was an extraordinary family manager, taking care of many moves around the world whilst raising four children and caring for a wide circle of friends and extended family. We loved her company, her charme, her profound and articulate conversation points, her grace, her generosity, her humor and wonderful smile. We will truly miss her.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your children. Please know that we will be available if ever we can be of help and support.

Sabine and Werner

Chris, Sean, Katy, Kevin and Michael
We were heartbroken to hear of Carmel's passing.
Some people leave a quiet strength behind them , and Carmel was one of those rare souls - kind, generous, loyal and truly unforgettable . Carmel brought warmth wherever she went she always made people feel welcome , safe and loved.
You are all in our thoughts , God bless you all.
With deepest sympathy
Samir, Linda, Shahira, Lauren Ishak

So pleased that we caught up again for Jess’ and Gemma’s weddings.
I have so many wonderful memories from our childhood. Having fun camping in the stable at Ballyclerihan. Going interailing around Europe in our early 20’s. I remember it like yesterday in so many ways. You called and said I’m going round Europe next week, are you coming?
I said I’ve got no money and you said get a credit card. First £500 ever borrowed. I think it was £10k when I finally paid it back!
Rest in Peace Carmel and watch over your lovely family xx

To Chris, Sean, Katy, Kevin and Michael, and the grandchildren - words are not enough. I am so sorry for your loss. Carmel loved her family fiercely and always spoke of you all with such tenderness and care.

Our friendship started on the tennis court in Sydney where she was my doubles partner. She had a ripping forehand. Then she became my travel buddy: Shanghai, Switzerland, Paris. Carmel would always say “Yes” to any invitation, even before you had finished the sentence! I feel very blessed to have shared the moments I had with her. Lisa Sydney xxx

I was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Carmel. Although I didn’t work directly with Chris I supported Aaron Canning as part of the executive team that worked alongside Chris. I know how much Carmel and his family meant to Chris, I can only imagine how devastating this must be for them.

My heartfelt condolences go out to Chris, his family, and all those who knew and loved Carmel. This is an incredibly difficult time, and I hope they find strength and support from each other. My thoughts are with you all.

I first met Carmel at a dinner in Philadelphia 23 years ago where I was in the process of hiring Chris into Campbells Soup. I have such strong and fond memories of that dinner. We hit it off immediately and I was struck by Carmels warmth, intellect, sparkle and ready huge smile. Over the years these qualities were amplified over and over again. Such a terrible loss. Michelle and I send our huge sympathies to Chris and all the family. May Carmel rest in peace and always look down on you all with that sparkle and smile.

John and Michelle

I first remember Carmel through my Mum. The best stories of their inter-railing trip will forever be the backdrop to my desire to travel without a plan.
But the shared life we have with BallyClerihan and sense of ‘home’ is unbeatable with my family, however extended it is. Despite years of cross over, when we were adults, I met my cousin Katie, with my now husband, on a trip to NY. Keen to meet home abroad, we met Katie for a steak dinner and nothing has felt so easy. Katie, like Carmel, is a social being and breathes warmth, despite not having seen each other since babies / perhaps ever. That sense of family and joy in connection is something that I will forever treasure. But most meaningful, is the effort that Carmel went to, to ensure that our families remained connected. Carmel made it to our wedding in 2023 and would have done so whatever the degree of exhaustion. The duty now lies with us to keep that sense of family alive. Carmel is a huge loss to the world but most to her family for whom her commitment was endless. Xxx

I only met Carmel a couple of years or so ago when she seemed to bounce into my life. She had so much positive energy and joie de vivre! She was always enthusiastic, empathetic, supportive and so interested in everyone and their stories. There was no room in her life for ‘ifs, buts or maybes’ and I found that so refreshing.
And she always, without exception, talked so lovingly about her family. My heart goes out to you all.

Dear Chris, family and friends, here's a picture of the Carmel I knew, loved and admired. I met Carmel when she signed up for Bridge lessons at the Brussel's Women's Club. Always an eager student she was hoping to join a New York Bridge Club on her return to the States. She was so keen not to miss a lesson or a game that having touched down at 8.00am from her New York flight she would be ready to play at 9.45am at the Clubhouse, even if she needed two matchsticks to keep her eyes open. She had a wide range of skills, one of them was her ability to visualise three dimensional spaces.We had been debating- at length- how to accommodate our Bridge equipment. Within a week she had reorganised our Bridge Club cupboard with new shelving and somehow persuaded us to weed out all the unnecessary materials which we had been adamant we couldn't do without. She was a whirlwind of boundless energy who could always find a solution to a problem. She was a bright soul who touched people. It was privilege to have known her and called her a friend.

It is still hard to believe that Carmel will no longer be solving all our problems with kindness and that gorgeous smile. I am so sad for Chris, her elderly father and all her children who must still be in shock, my deepest sympathy to you all. How unfair life can be.
I will remember Carmel for the enthusiasm with which she helped me with an exhibition and wine tasting event, as well as her good company on the BWC walks. She will be sorely missed by all of us. The photo was taken on our last walk together, very recently.

I really don't want to write this and wish this wasn't happening but I do want to acknowledge what a special person dear Carmel was. We met when she and Chris moved to Sydney and our sons were at school together. What a unique irreplaceable ray of God's sunshine she was. So kind, generous, friendly, lively, organised, dependable, thoughtful, warm, talkative, happy, intelligent and faithful. And what a beautiful smile! It was just so good spending time with her! In fun times like boating, parties, movies, eating, walking and talking but also in tough times, she was truly an encouraging, inspiring, courageous, faithful friend and I consider myself so blessed to have known her. We are crying with you Chris and praying so much for you and all your lovely family. Georgina and Tony xx

I only knew Carmel for a short time but she was an absolutely lovely person in every way. The whole team working on the new apartment in NYC would constantly discuss what a great person she was. It was clear from the start of our project that she was an organized, smart, confident and empathetic person. All my best to her family and friends, she will be missed.

Dear Chris, Sean, Katie, Kevin and Michael, I've struggled over the last few days trying to write a tribute to Carmel, not because I don't have so many wonderful things to say about Carmel, but because I struggle with the fact that she's no longer with us.

When I was a young girl growing up in Ireland, I was always so excited when we were told that the Gallagher’s were coming over on holidays, especially excited to be allowed wake Carmel and her dear sisters, Joan and Ann from their sleep after arriving in from their flight. Climbing our granny’s stairs and climbing onto what I remember as very high bed to wake them, that itself was so much fun. Their holidays home meant family time, all our cousins, aunts and uncles getting together, trips to Howth for picnics after a hike on Howth head, bags of chips and 99’s (Irish ice cream cones), and the fun with them on their visits to our farm in Meath either before or after their trip to Tipperary to see Auntie Maureen’s family.

Although years past when we didn't see each other too much, we heard all the news, of Carmel’s love of her life - Chris, about the birth of each of her beautiful children, and about grandchildren, Charlotte and Christopher She was so proud of all of you. When Chris and Carmel moved to Brussels, it was an opportunity to have quality, fun cousin time once again. We had great fun during a cousin catchup weekend in London, the trip to the cinema on a rainy afternoon to watch little women, such laughs as Carmel showing us how to enhance how we look when a photo is being taken - I will always put a shoulder more forward than the other just for you😉 our card games and our weekend in Connecticut all creating great memories. One of the last times I was with Carmel was when she was came to Ireland to buy her first race horse, she was so excited. Her passion for horse racing and her excitement of having her own horse was infectious.

Carmel’s life was full of living, full of fun, and she always smiling. Carmel’s family and extended family were all so important to her, she was so proud of all their achievements no matter how small. Her devotion, dedication to everything, her attention to detail was second to none.

No one can take our memories of Carmel away. When I think of Carmel I can see her smile, hear her voice and hear her laugh. My tribute to Carmel is to try live my best life to its fullest, to do the things on my bucket list. I can her say “go for it”. None of us know the day or the hour when we too are gone from this world. Carmel, I will always remember you.

Dearest Chris, Sean, Katie, Kevin and Michael and all your family. Uncle Jimmy. Ann and your family too, you will all be in our thoughts and prayers over the coming days, weeks and month to come. 💔
Colette, David, Adam, Sean and Jack

Dear Chris and Family,
I am so sorry. I have no words that can express the deep shock and loss I feel upon learning of Carmel's passing.
I do have a wonderful memory of our times together that I'd like to share. You and Carmel were still in Warsaw when I came back to pack up our house as we were leaving Poland for good (Gisela and the boys stayed home in the US). After the movers packed everything I looked at the home we lived in and the yard where our three boys played for the first few years of their lives...this was a very emotional moment for me. That evening you and Carmel invited me to your home for dinner - this was such a thoughtful and generous thing to do. This gesture made my departure so much easier and I think about that evening from time to time. I will always remember you and Carmel as very kind people.
Carmel was a good person, God Bless.

It's just so hard to believe you are no longer there Carmel. You were such a force of nature but, more importantly, one of the most empathetic people I have ever come across, always finding time to reach out to others, to show kindness and understanding, to inspire and to motivate. We only knew each other for a short while, but in those two years, you have made an indelible mark on my life. I loved exchanging stories with you about Ireland and about life and love, and also more recently about your exciting NY apartment renovations and our house-building adventure in Portugal, .
My heart goes out to your lovely husband and children, wishing them the strength to continue to make the most of this most cruel world.

Dear Chris, family and friends, Condolences first of all on your tragic loss. I knew Carmel from the Brussels Women's Club when we decided to learn Bridge and went on some walks together. Such a smart, chic, helpful, smiley lady. She really did brighten up a room with her charisma and that special light in her eye. Thinking of you all at this time.

Dear Chris and family

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and condolences are with you all

Carmel was such a shining light, so vibrant and vivacious.

I only knew her for a few years but, as was her personality, she enveloped me with her kindness. In 2024 we had a wonderful 4 days walking in Germany and were planning an overnight 2 day walk so she could get in shape for her Camino walk later this year.

She was so smart, so energetic and so persuasive. She should have been a diplomat as she could make you say 'yes' to any suggestion she made, when really you had meant to say 'no' 😉

She was so family orientated and whilst I never had the privilege to meet your/her children/grandchildren her stories/tales (of them) were wonderful.

It was a privilege to have known her and have her as a friend. I will v much miss her.

Dear Family,
first if all my deepest sympathy for your loss. I met Carmel at the Brussels Women’s Club here in Brussels, Belgium. It is hard to write about someone you’ve seen recently and could never imagine anything dreadful happening to them. Carmel was so full of life, sparkling with ideas on how to make things work better (not everyone’s cup of tea when it involves making changes), but for an oldie like me she was always there with a cheerful smile, and if she could not personally help with something, pointed the way to someone else who could. I will miss seeing this pretty, smart lady at club events, but she will not be forgotten.
Patricia Saul-Vandenplas.

Dear Chris and family
Words are not sufficient to express my heartfelt sympathy to all of you for the loss of a very caring and genuine loving lady. Her memory will always live in all of our hearts.
May Heavens gates open wide for her entrance.
Love and prayers
Dianne

Dear Chris and family,

We met Carmel and your family when we were neighbours in North Sydney. We remember sharing a wonderful Italian meal cooked by Chris, and Carmel was always gracious and generous with her time. We express our deepest sympathies at this time. She will be remembered for the beautiful person that she was.

All our love, Linna and Andrew Skinner

I remember the first time I saw Carmel, meeting up with walkers in the forest, and saying to myself what a smart lady who can navigate easily with her smartphone. It then became obvious that her work with The Brussels Women's Club made a difference, seeing her so lively with a witty sense of humour. She will be missed, but not forgotten. Sincere condolences to her family.

Chris, Katie & Kevin & other loved ones, my heart reaches out to you in your deep grief. Carmel lived at Ridgemont Apartments in North Sydney AU with dear Katie & Kevin one floor below mine. Her warmth & kindness to me was so special & her wit, charm, funny side rounded out by a sharp business acumen & engagement outstretched most.
She left a very large hole after moving away & will be lovingly remembered for the rest of my life. With my love.
With her Lord till He comes.

Dearest Chris and family,
I am so saddened and heartbroken of this sudden news. I only spoke to Carmel a few weeks ago and she made me a beautiful video for my mums 60th birthday. She looked as beautiful and as wonderful as I’ve always remembered her.

I have only the fondest memories from back in Poland and hanging with Katie and Sean back then. I always remember Carmel smiling and probably in some sort of laughable situation forsure in our vacation trips. I remember visiting you in the States too for a weekend which was amazing.

I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss of such a beautiful human and I am praying for you all and sending my thoughts and love. Wish I could be there to pay my respects and honour her incredible life.

Sending so much love,
Morgan

Chris, We are so saddened to hear of your loss. We pray that God puts his loving arms around you and your family and holds you tightly. We cannot attend but know we will be thinking of you .

What a terrible loss for the world. Carmel was just an amazing person and friend. We met in Poland in 1995, 30 years ago. We did family vacations together. Carmel also worked for me for a time as a superb Brand Manager.

We reconnected with the Delaney’s many times in subsequent years including many boat outings in Sydney.

The memories are fabulous. They say you never realize the great moments in life until they are in your rear view mirror. It’s true. I have nothing but amazing memories of Carmel and the entire Delaney Family.

All of us send our love, prayers, and support. The world has lost one of the great ones.

James Michael Lafferty and Family

Sincere condolences to Carmel’s family and friends near and far. It is hard to believe that we will no longer see that beautiful smile again as she floated like an butterfly around the BWC clubhouse diplomatically solving problems, looking for solutions, relaxing (sometimes) over bridge, always positive. We were lucky to have had you in our lives and you will be sorely missed. RIP dear friend 💕

Dear Chris,

I am deeply saddened to hear about Carmel's passing. Carmel was such a wonderful person, and I will always cherish the fact that I got to know her personally. Deepest condolence and I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts as you go through this difficult times.

Our beautiful cousin Carmel ~ you have been so treasured by all the Dolan/Gallagher/Beckett family forever. We have the fondest memories of Carmel when she first started visiting all our aunties, uncles, and cousins in Ireland. I’ll always cherish the times she came down to visit us on the farm in Co. Meath with her wonderful sisters, Ann and Joan, and Uncle Jimmy and Auntie Maureen. We put on our wellies and roamed the fields for hours. Those visits and moments now feel more precious than ever.

I especially remember the gatherings in Dublin at Granny Gallagher’s house where the red carpet was always rolled out when Uncle Jimmy, Maureen and the kids arrived over from America. It was a big to do! The best of everything was brought out; the finest china, best linens and towels, the Waterford Crystal & the best Irish Whiskeys and Baileys were served. During those visits, the entire family would get together in Granny’s house and I remember the huge bursts of laughter in the sitting room and all the funny stories they’d tell of their upbringing. And of course, Uncle Jimmy, ever the prankster, never missed a chance to entertain us with his humor and the mischief he used to get up to as a youngster and Uncle Des with his amazing magic tricks. Pure JOY!

Later in life, I was lucky enough to spend almost a year living with Carmel, Joan, and Ann in Maureen and Jimmy’s house in Bardonia, NY after I moved to America. It was there that I got to know my cousins even more closely, sharing in the joy, love, and kindness that filled that home. I will be forever grateful for that time and for the generosity & love they all showed me. I watched Carmel graduate college, meet the wonderful Chris Delaney, attend their amazing wedding at West Point, bring four gorgeous kids into this world, and watch their family grow as the grandkids arrived. We celebrated endless happy occasions together over the years.

Carmel, you were such a beautiful light in this world—an amazing woman with the kindest heart. When I think of you, I see your radiant smile, the warmth & generosity you shared so effortlessly, and the love you poured into everyone around you. You brought people together. I treasure our most recent visits to Florida where I have a longer story to tell of an occasion that left us laughing for an entire day. To this day, that story will make me laugh out loud.

We are so lost without you, brokenhearted beyond words. The world feels dimmer without your presence, but we will carry your love, grace and your amazing “get up and go”, with us always. You always knew how to get things done!

Thank you for the memories & so much laughter. Rest in peace, Carmel. I know you are with your beautiful mom, your sister Joan (my other dear cousin who I also loved so very much) and all the family who are up there in heaven with you.

We love you, we miss you, and we are holding you and your beautiful family in our hearts and prayers.

Liz, Aaron, Darragh and Gavin

I first met Carmel when we were both new retirees on a walk organised by the Brussels Womens Club. We had a lot of common points, and really enjoyed our subsequent coffees together - spread out over quite some time because we were both busy with all retirement had to offer! Carmel was vivacious, proactive, friendly, with her heart in the right place. I will miss her.

I knew her during ski bird season when she would visit The Knitting Room with
Laura. She always brightened up the room with so much genuine enthusiasm for the natural beauty of the yarn and fellow fiber friend’s projects..
Carmel will be remembered in love and light with no blemish or blight just a perfect lovely being.
“May the Peace of the Lord be with you “

All my sympathies & prayers go out to her husband, her children and especially her Aunt Renee + all the many friends, praying that you all feel God’s Peace. Amen

Always felt better after spending time with her.Loving, generous, funny, smart, and example to other on how to live a full life. Amazing wife and mother. Love Ray

Hi Chris,
My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, may the cherished memories of your loved one bring you strength and comfort.
With heartfelt sympathy.

Your light will shine on, beautiful Carmel. Remembering all the good times. Forever in our hearts.
Zoe and Grant

Carmel was the best big sister! We had so many great times together. I remember a time when Carmel was in high school and mom and dad were away, that should say it all right there! Carmel had a FEW friends over and mom and dad found out the next day because one of her friends poured their beer in the light fixture! Wow! I will miss Carmel dearly but she lives on in my memory. I will always love you Carm!

I first met Carmel when I was running the St. Theresa's golf classic. Over the years, Carmel and Chris were such great donors that I finally made them the grand honorees at our tournament. Unfortunately, Carmel and Chris couldn't be there, so their son Chris and daughter-in-law, Tara, were there as their proxies. Finally, I had the opportunity to meet Carmel, and I guess that was it. Shortly thereafter, we had dinner, and Laura finally met Carmel. Well, that was all it took… These two became like sisters. Laura couldn't wait till Carmel came back into town so they could knit together and just have a wonderful time, oh yes, and sometimes I was even invited. But that was Carmel; she did everything at the same time, just like a whirling dervish, and it always looked like she had everything under control. And when we spoke about the St Theresa's golf outing, she said she would be honored to be part of it when they came to live in Windham full-time… And she could really tell us how it should be run.
Caramel introduced us to the art of making the perfect pizza in their pizza oven. I will always cherish the evenings we sat in their living room having a glass of wine (or when Chris was there, a bourbon) while she was busy making pizza.
I always thought it was amazing that anytime we saw Caramel she always had a smile on her face. The only time the smile got bigger was when Charlotte was there with her. She was certainly the glue that kept her family together. Although Caramel may not be physically with us, she will always be with us. Every day we will talk about Carmel. We will think about all the wonderful experiences we have. We will always bring her into a conversation. Life will never be the same without her. It will just be different. Just being able to know her for this somewhat short time we have changed our lives forever.

My heart goes out to Carmel, her family and all who loved her. Wishing peace, comfort, and strength during this incredibly difficult time. My heartfelt condolences. I am sharing a photo of Carmel when she & Chris kindly came to our opening last year. Her light & smile will be deeply missed.