Much-loved Marian retires from the credit union after 37 years

IT REALLY was the end of an era at Carlow Credit Union recently when one of its much-loved staff members bid a fond farewell after 37 years.

Marian O’Toole was the face of Carlow Credit Union for almost four decades and was given a rousing send-off by colleagues and customers recently as she sets off for a long and happy retirement. “She was the face, the voice and the ear of Carlow Credit Union … she was amazing,” said Siobhan Gray, credit manager of Carlow Credit Union.

“She was held in the highest regard and the highest esteem by everyone. Marian was a champion for everyone who came into the credit union, she was so supportive and always there to help,” said Siobhan. “It was a sad day the day she left, she will be missed,” she added.

Marian held a number of positions at the credit union over the years, beginning as a cashier in the former premises on Burrin Street. She later became marketing and business development officer and more recently lending officer. Part of Marian’s remit during her time at the credit union was working with schools, teaching early savers the real benefits of saving a few bob! For many years she also organised the hugely popular Credit Union Primary School Quiz.

Marian was also extremely helpful and supportive to people seeking loans and mortgages, always the voice of reason, practical advice and genuine compassion. On her final day, colleagues gathered to bid Marian well in her retirement, with presentations from the board of management and staff to mark her wonderful service. “The response from the post we put up on our own social media about Marian retiring has been incredible, what people have said about Marian and how much people thought of her … it’s been a real outpouring of love,” added Siobhan.