On Thursday (22nd May, 2025), we raised the parting glass in memory of our dear friend and comrade, Elaine Rush. Her coffin was brought to the Joe McKelvey Garden, draped in the Tricolour and the Starry Plough by Workers’ Party Republican Clubs President Michael McCorry and Jim Quinn, and honoured with a guard of honour made up of women from Belfast and Dublin.

Elaine’s daughter, Darcey, spoke beautifully about her mother – as a devoted wife, a loving daughter, sister, aunt, and a fiercely committed mother. Her daughter Rosa followed with a reading of Success by Ralph Waldo Emerson. Elaine’s brothers, John and Damien, shared heartfelt reflections on her life, speaking with love and deep conviction.

Caoimhe Garland, our National Organiser, delivered an oration on behalf of the organisation, which we have included below.

We send our deepest sympathy to Martin, Darcey, Rosa and the entire family.

Slán leat, Elaine – a chara agus comrádaí.

—

A chairde agus chomrádaithe,

Tá brón orainn inniu agus ár gcroíthe briste le bás ár gcomrádaí dílis, Elaine.

Comrades, friends, Elaine’s family,

We gather here today with heavy hearts, mourning the loss of our dear comrade Elaine—a loyal member of the Workers’ Party, a steadfast activist, and above all, a beloved friend. Her absence leaves a void that can never truly be filled. The echo of her laughter, the strength of her convictions, and the warmth of her presence are etched into our memories, a lasting reminder of the light she brought into our lives and the unwavering dedication she gave to the cause we all share. Today, we do not simply say farewell—we celebrate a life lived with purpose, passion, and a fierce commitment to the ideals of socialist republicanism.

Elaine wasn’t just a member—she was the embodiment of discipline, resolve, and reliability. No task was too small, no responsibility beneath her. Whether organising grassroots campaigns or meticulously following up CABs, Elaine approached every challenge with quiet determination and a belief that collective effort could drive real change. Her drive came from a deeply held conviction that a better world was possible, and that each of us had a responsibility to help build it. Her dedication inspires us to strive harder, work smarter, and never lose sight of the vision she held so dearly.

Elaine’s loyalty to the Party was matched only by her loyalty to her comrades. She was always there—to lend a hand, offer support, or simply listen. Her empathy and practical wisdom offered comfort in times of uncertainty. She knew that solidarity wasn’t just about slogans or placards—it was about looking after each other. Elaine was the glue that bound us together, a reminder that we are not just political allies, but a family joined by shared purpose and genuine affection.

Elaine was also known for her straight-talking honesty. She had no time for nonsense and didn’t suffer fools gladly. She said what she meant, and meant what she said—and while she could be forthright, she was always fair. You always knew where you stood with Elaine, and that clarity—grounded in principle and integrity—earned her deep respect, even from those who didn’t always agree with her.

To remember Elaine only for her political work would miss so much of what made her special. She had a wicked sense of humour, often catching us off guard with a sharply observed comment or perfectly timed joke. In even the most stressful of times, she reminded us to laugh, to find joy, and to stay human. Her wit was never frivolous—it was a source of strength, a way to keep going, to remind us that hope and humour go hand in hand in any struggle worth fighting.

Elaine’s courage extended far beyond party offices or campaign rooms. During some of the most difficult and dangerous times in the history of the North of Ireland and our Party, she stood firmly against sectarianism. While others chose silence or compromise, Elaine stood her ground. She spoke out for unity, justice, and equality, knowing full well the risks. Her bravery, in the face of threats and isolation, was a testament to her character—undaunted, principled, and unwavering.

For me personally, Elaine was more than a comrade—she was a best friend, a sister. We spent countless hours together, putting the world to rights, sharing dreams and disappointments. But more importantly, we shared life—our struggles, our celebrations, our fears, and our hopes. She stood by me during my darkest days, and I will never forget her kindness, her wisdom, and her unfailing support. That bond was forged through activism, but deepened into a friendship of true love and trust. Her loss is personal, and the ache profound.

Elaine was also a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt. She balanced her activism with deep commitment to her family, always putting their needs above her own. Her home was a haven of love, support, and strength. To Elaine’s family—your loss is immense, and our hearts are with you. We hope you take some comfort in knowing how deeply she was loved and respected by so many.

Elaine’s passing leaves an irreplaceable hole, but her legacy endures. Her loyalty, humour, honesty, and indomitable spirit will guide us as we carry forward the fight for the better world she believed in. Let us honour her memory not just in words, but in action—by working together with the same clarity, courage, and camaraderie she lived by. Elaine’s light still shines—in our hearts, in our work, and in the struggle for a better future which we continue to build in her name.

We will never forget her.

Elaine Rush, we salute you.

Go raibh maith agaibh.