Farewell to Christeen Maree Harth (1955–2026)

A Symphony of Service

Celebrating Christeen Maree Harth | 1955 – 2026

On Wednesday, February 4th, Sacred Heart Catholic Church was a house of music, filled three times over by those whose lives were touched by Christeen Harth. From the parish choirs to the school chaplains of TSS and St Hilda's, a community gathered to say goodbye to a woman who famously lived "17 lives in one."

A Life of Harmony and Hard Work

Born in Nambour on February 25, 1955, as one of 14 children to Victor and Eileen O'Reilly, Christeen learned the value of a dollar and a hard day’s work early on. Whether she was working in banks, restaurants, or pubs, she never wasted an opportunity. Her daughter Danelle fondly recalled her meeting Barry—"wooed by his mullet and mustache"—and building a life together that led them to the Gold Coast.

Christeen was well known for her entrepreneurial spirit, most notably as the owner of the Judicial Cafe in Southport, right across from the courthouse. The stories from those Judicial Cafe days were legendary at the dinner table. She also spent years at the school tuck shop—a "blessing and a curse" for Danelle, who had no place to hide from teachers, but always had access to snacks!

"Mum was steadfast, firm, fair, and reliable. She taught me the value of hard work and kindness by example... I will never forget hearing from the darkness of the crowd: 'Go Nelly!' and 'Go St Hilda's!'"

The "Dynamo" of the Parish

Father described Christeen as a "truly shining example" of Saint Mary MacKillop’s mantra: “Never see a need without doing something about it.” She was the miracle of the parish rosters, racing between 7:00 AM Mass at Stella Maris and 8:00 AM at St. Vincent's. "I don’t know if she had hidden tickets for speeding," Father joked, "or if everyone just knew to get out of the road!"

As the Music Director and the organist for TSS chapel services, her "pure angelic voice" led thousands in prayer. She was a woman of action—presenting flowers for anniversaries or mending gaps in the community wherever she saw them.

A Legacy of Love

• Danelle & Jake: Her daughter and son-in-law (the son she never had), whom she welcomed and supported completely.
• Grandson George: Her "greatest joy" and the light of her final three years.
• Her Beloved John: Who shared her love of music and dance, recalling their eyes meeting as they danced because both were tall.
• The O'Reilly Siblings: We pray for her many brothers and sisters and the entire extended family.

John fondly recalled her infectious laugh and glamorous presence, though he admitted to many "silent white-knuckle prayers" while Christeen "steered with her knees at 100 kilometers an hour" on back roads!

Christeen has now entered her eternal reward, reunited with her beloved Barry. As Father noted, she is likely already "sorting out the heavenly choir" and perhaps cooking little treats for the banquet of heaven.

Experience the Celebration

The full recording of Christeen's celebration of life, including the incredible musical tributes and eulogies, is available via the link below.

Watch Livestream Recording

"Until we meet again, in that blessed place where every tear will be wiped away."