A remarkable legacy

Apr 19, 2024

Sr Enda Ryan, FMM (1928-2024)

Throughout her lifetime, Sr Enda made remarkable contributions, from advocating for women’s education to nurturing the growth of the Ave Maria Clinic, which later evolved into the renowned Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya.

Born Eileen Philomena Ryan in Galbally, Ireland, on December 30, 1928, she joined the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) in 1947 and dedicated her life to serving others. She graduated from the National University of Ireland in the Summer of 1954, with a B. A. and Higher Diploma in Education.

In response to a request by Sir Michael Hogan, the then-Chief Justice of Malaya, Sr Enda arrived in what was then Malaya in 1954. She was tasked with establishing schools for girls whose education had been disrupted by the Communist insurgency. Without hesitation, she helped found Assunta Primary School and concurrently prepared older girls for the Secondary School Entry Exam in late 1957. Thus, in January 1958, Assunta Secondary School commenced its journey, with Sr Enda serving as its pioneering headmistress. She even composed the school song, which remains sung by Assunta students to this day.

In 1966, Sr Enda became a Malaysian citizen, solidifying her commitment to the nation. Over her 31 years of dedicated service, she received numerous accolades, including the Excellent Service Award from the Education Ministry (1985), the Pingat Jasa Cemerlang (1986), and the Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) from the Sultan of Selangor (1987), among others.

Upon her retirement in 1989, Sr Enda continued to take a keen interest in the affairs of the school, attending occasions like Teachers’ Day, Prize Giving Day, Assunta Spirit Week and the annual Sports Day.

In 2007, she was honoured with the Darjah Kebesaran Dato’ Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah title by the Sultan of Selangor, earning the prestigious title of Datin Paduka.

Her dedication and impact were further recognised in 2022 when she was awarded an honorary doctorate in humanities from Taylor’s University, a testament to her legacy of service and compassion.