Ottawa Mourns the Loss of Sue Fay Healy: Beloved Irish Dance Icon, Cultural Leader, and Community Pillar
The Ottawa community is united in grief following the peaceful passing of Sue Fay Healy, a cherished cultural icon and devoted advocate of Irish dance. Sue, the dynamic founder of SFH Irish Dance, passed away on Sunday, June 8th, at the age of 67, surrounded by her loving family — leaving behind an extraordinary legacy as an Irish Canadian, wife, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend.
🍀 A Proud Irish Canadian and Dance Visionary
Born in Dublin, Ireland, Sue brought the spirit and authenticity of Irish dance to Eastern Canada over 33 years ago . In 1989 she founded the Sue Fay Healy School of Irish Dance in Ottawa — affectionately known simply as “SFH” — which quickly became the premier studio for Irish dance in the region . The school welcomed dancers from preschoolers to retirees—anyone from ages 3 to 103—as Sue was passionate about sharing her craft with everyone, regardless of experience .
Holding prestigious credentials (TCRG, ADCRG, BG) through An Coimisiún le Rincí Gaelacha, Sue not only taught locally but also served as an adjudicator at major competitions around the world: the All‑Irelands, World Championships, and North American events . She proudly co-chaired the 2006 Eastern Canadian Oireachtas in Ottawa and chaired the 2007 North American Championships—events that hosted thousands of dancers internationally . Her global and local impact was profound.
💃 A Lifelong Mentor and Cultural Ambassador
Sue’s deep connection to Irish dance was shaped early in life. As a competitive dancer, she performed at the top levels, placing at Leinster, All‑Ireland, and World Championships . She later drew on that elite experience to shape future generations of dancers. At SFH, she offered a full spectrum of training—from beginner to open championship levels—and even hosted seasonal summer camps and adult exercise classes . Sue also organized beloved community feiseanna (dance competitions), notably the Capital Feis each May and the Feile Nollaig in December .
Through her expertise and compassionate teaching, Sue instilled technical excellence and cultural pride in her students—many of whom have become teachers, adjudicators, and champions themselves. Even casual onlookers could sense her joy and enthusiasm; she once shared on social media the excitement of preparing dancers ahead of a big performance .
❤️ A Cherished Family Matriarch
More than anything, Sue was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. Her family was at the heart of her life and work; they shared in the joys of each dance milestone and world competition. In her final moments, she was surrounded by them, surrounded by love — a testament to how deeply she was loved.
🌟 A Community in Mourning
The sense of loss in Ottawa’s Irish and wider cultural community is immense. Messages have poured in, celebrating her warm spirit, mentorship, and contributions. Many recount Sue’s ability to bring people together: whether on stage, in competition halls, or in the studio, she spread the joy of Irish culture and dance with boundless energy.
Her Lasting Legacy
- An exceptional teacher and global adjudicator: Respected for her technical insight and passion, Sue shaped dancers who went on to compete internationally and become mentors themselves.
- Cultural builder: Through SFH Irish Dance, the Capital Feis, and numerous performances, she established Ottawa as a vibrant hub for Irish arts.
- Role model and inspiration: Sue’s belief that dance can be for anyone, at any age, has left a lasting impression—her studio motto, “Why jog when you can jig,” captured her spirit .
Celebrating Sue’s Life
Although deeply saddened, Sue’s family and students encourage the community to honor her legacy by:
- Continuing to dance – enroll in classes, support feiseanna, or host community gatherings in her name.
- Sharing memories – posting stories or photos to social media pages dedicated to Sue and SFH Irish Dance.
- Supporting SFH’s mission – donating to scholarships or funding the Capital and Feile Nollaig feiseanna ensures her vision endures.
Farewell to a True Irish Canadian Legend
Sue Fay Healy embodied the best of Irish culture—grace, resilience, passion, and community. From her roots in Dublin to building an Irish dance legacy in Ottawa, she touched countless lives. Her commitment to tradition, family, and community will forever echo in the sound of dancing feet and laughter in studios and feis halls.
To Sue’s husband, children, grandchildren, extended family, and the entire SFH Irish Dance community: you are in our thoughts and hearts. May you find comfort in her remarkable life and lasting influence.
💚 Slán go fóill, Sue. Your rhythm, spirit, and love of dance will live on in every jig and reel.