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Pictured: Sister Stan Photo: Steve Humphreys

The founder of Focus Ireland Sister Stan has died aged 86, the Religious Sisters of Charity have said.

Sister Stanislaus Kennedy, known as Sister Stan, died on Monday morning after a short time at the St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown.

“Sr Stan was a powerful voice for compassion, equality, and systemic change throughout her life,” said Sister Patricia Lenihan, the order’s superior general.

“She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, co-workers and the congregation.

“While there is a deep sadness, we are confident that her legacy of a life dedicated to the service of others in need, will continue to inspire us and generations of activists and social innovators in Ireland,” she added.

Sister Stan was born Treasa Kennedy on June 19, 1939, near Lispole, on the Dingle Peninsula in Co Kerry.

She was one of five children growing up in a farming family.

Inspired by the work of the Religious Sisters of Charity founder, Mary Aikenhead, she decided to become a Sister at the age of 18 and was professed in January 1960.

She joined the Religious Sisters of Charity in 1958 and “devoted her life to helping others”, Sister Lenihan said in a statement this morning.

“She was a leading advocate and activist for change, working tirelessly to support the homeless, immigrants, and those in disadvantaged communities throughout Ireland and beyond.

“Throughout her life, Sr Stan was a courageous force for social change. She challenged the status quo and consistently voiced her informed views to influence policy and promote justice,” she added.