Obituary - Margaret Tighe, Pro-Life Advocate

Right to Life New Zealand are saddened by the death of Margaret Tighe. Margaret Tighe, 94, was a household name for decades and a vocal founder and leader of Right to Life Australia until her death on the 15th February.

Through media advocacy, grassroots activism, and direct political pressure, Margaret ensured that the defence of the unborn was part of Australia’s public debate.

Her leadership was marked by persistence and conviction, espousing the inherent dignity of each and every human life from conception until natural death.

In addition to raising a family and running a pharmacy, Margaret and her late husband, Ron, dedicated over 65 years to defending babies through Right to Life’s campaigns and public interventions.

Despite her persuasive eloquence and wily charm, she even spent a weekend in a Melbourne prison for publicly protesting against the killing of babies.

Margaret was a woman of great consequence to Australia’s civic life, but it is her adversaries in the abortion industry who now receive public honours and accolades.

Right to Life New Zealand honours Margaret Tighe and her lifelong work. She was undeniably the most recognised leader of the pro-life movement in Australia’s history. We offer our condolences to her four children, to her extended family and friends and also to her loyal collaborators and colleagues at Right to Life Australia, who will continue the work to gain protection for the innocent and defenceless unborn children of Australia.

A Mass for the happy repose of her soul will be celebrated at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral in Christchurch.

‘Eternal rest grant to her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her; may she rest in peace.’

Chris O'Brien

President Right to Life New Zealand