Warm tributes to retired Mayo teacher Josephine McDonagh
The death has taken place of Josephine McDonagh (née Cleary), Lightford, Castlebar, and late of Bunmore, Ballycroy.
She died peacefully yesterday in the wonderful care of the staff at Highfield Healthcare, Swords Road, Dublin, surrounded by her loving family.
Recently predeceased by her husband Tony, Josephine was a member of the teaching staff of St. Angela's Girls National School (now Castlebar Primary School Junior Campus) for many years and where she was held in high regard and esteem for her affable and kind personality.
In a tribute to her on social media, one of her former pupils wrote: "Josephine was my very first teacher in St. Angela's and left a lasting impression on me. She had such a kind face to match her beautiful nature."
Another former pupil said: "Josephine taught me in 4th class in 1978. She was a true educator, interested in all her pupils, very fair and with a very soft side to her. I will never forget her."
A further tribute observed: "Josephine was a lady and a lovely neighbour."
The deceased had a long association with Castlebar Golf Club, where she was a very popular member.
She is deeply regretted by her son Evin, daughter Derbhile, brothers Brendan and Michael, daughter-in-law Tania, partner Nicolas, treasured granddaughter Riley, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours, and a wide circle of friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.
Josephine was also predeceased by her parents John and Bridget, sister, Mary Bridget (Sister Paula) and brothers George, John, and Paul.
Josephine will repose in the chapel of Highfield Healthcare, Swords Road, Drumcondra, today (Sunday) from 4 to 6 p.m., and Coady’s Funeral home, Castlebar, on Wednesday from 5.30 p.m. with removal at 7 p.m. to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar.
Requiem Mass takes on Thursday at 11.30 a.m., coinciding with her late husband Tony's Months Mind Mass.
Josephine will be laid to rest afterwards in the New Cemetery, Castlebar.
May her gentle soul rest in peace.