Tributes to 'exceptional' Mayo teacher Jimmy Hennigan on his passing
The death of Jimmy Hennigan, Aughaward, Foxford, a retired member of the teaching staff of St. Gerald's DLS College, Castlebar, is widely mourned.
He died peacefully in the care of the staff of Mayo University Hospital, surrounded by his seven children, following an illness borne with courage and good humour.
Predeceased by his loving wife Breda, parents Joe and Annie and granddaughters Jane and Sasha, Jimmy is lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his daughters Áine and Deborah, sons Padraig, Seamus, Aidan, Colm and Kieran, son-in-law Barry, daughters-in-law Alma, Cora and Ailbhe, sister Maureen, brothers PJ and Kevin and sisters-in-law Maureen and Alice.
He will also be sadly missed by his grandchildren Naoise, Zara (and their mum Orla), Leah, Rachel, Sorcha and Lucie, Róisín, Niall and Colm, Liam, Nell and James, his nephews and nieces, many relatives and friends.
Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.
Warm tributes are being paid to the deceased on social media.
Sean Burke, principal of St. Gerald's DLS College, stated: "Jimmy dedicated over 30 years of his life to St. Gerald’s DLS College, serving the school community with unwavering commitment, professionalism and integrity.
"An exceptional mathematics teacher, Jimmy was renowned for his tremendous work ethic, his dedication to his students and his deep commitment to the Lasallian ethos.
"He embodied the values of service, respect and care for others throughout his many years in the college.
"Beyond the classroom, Jimmy was a highly respected and valued colleague. Regarded as a wise head amongst his peers, his sound judgement, experience and thoughtful counsel were frequently sought by those around him.
"His contribution to the life and spirit of St. Gerald’s extended far beyond his teaching, and his legacy will endure within our school community.
"On behalf of the board of management, staff, students and the entire St. Gerald’s DLS College community, I extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Deborah and all the Hennigan family at this very difficult time."
One of his former students at St. Gerald's College, Chris Heneghan, stated : "He taught me in St. Gerald's from 1987 to 1993. A fantastic, logical maths. teacher who always showed genuine interest in his students.
"I met him many years later (2007) and he knew me without breaking stride, which I found remarkable, given the number of student that would have passed through his hands."
Jimmy will rest in repose in Clarke's Funeral Home, Foxford, on Thursday evening from 5 p.m. with removal at 7 p.m. to St. Michaels Church, Foxford.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday morning at 11 a.m. with interment afterwards in Toomore New Cemetery.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.