Westport saddened by untimely death of school principal

THE community of Westport and further afield have been shocked and saddened by the sudden death of John Meaney, principal of St. Colmcille's National School, The Quay, Westport.

Mr. Meaney, who was aged 49, passed away unexpectedly yesterday (Thursday) morning.

He was the highly respected principal of The Quay National School.

Mr. Meaney is survived by his wife, Siobhan, and four young children, Conor, Aoife, Anna and Seanie.

Remains will repose at the family residence at Clerhaun, Westport, on Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. Removal on Monday (February 5) at 11 a.m. to St. Mary's Church, Westport, for Mass at 12.30 p.m. Burial afterwards in Aughavale Cemetery.

John was a great community man and Westport United paid the following tribute to him on their Facebook page:

“John was a brilliant schoolteacher and respected principal and many children that came through his kind and caring methodology in education have become excellent role models within their community and further beyond, be it at Westport CBS Primary School or St. Colmcille's National School at The Quay.

“In footballing circles, John would have been responsible for entering St. Colmcille's National School in to the FAIS National Primary Schools 5 A Side competitions where the school always played with distinction, and the school would be represented every weekend at Rice College for the WYAC Indoor Football programme.

"John's eldest son, Conor, is goalkeeper for the Westport United Under 12 team and John was a great supporter of his son, regularly attending games and this Saturday, John would have been in attendance at the Skechers SFAI Cup game against Nenagh FC at the Sports Park.

“Westport United FC extends its deepest sympathy to the family of John Meaney and as a club it will endeavour to rally around our club member and popular Under 12 goalkeeper, Conor, and give him the support he needs at this sad and tragic time.”