Tributes have been paid following the sudden passing of a “warm” and “caring” Armagh woman who had been an integral part of Christian Brothers Primary School for almost two decades.
Cathy Duffy – a valued member of the school’s canteen team – sadly passed away on Monday (January 5) at Craigavon Area Hospital.
For seventeen years Cathy had been a constant friend and dedicated colleague at the school, popular among the faculty, parents and pupils alike.
Following her untimely death, the school shared their deep shock and sadness: “Cathy was a warm, caring presence in our canteen and was known to every pupil in our school. Her dedication and the positive impact on every child will be deeply missed.
“Not only was Cathy a trusted friend and colleague to our staff she was the mother to staff member Christina, mother of our schools’ coach Eoin, grandmother of pupils Matthew, Jack, Heidi, Éile and Evie, sister to our staff member Mary and mother-in-law to staff member Natalia.
“We ask you to keep Cathy, her husband Paul, her sons and our past pupils Paul, Kevin, Anto, Eoin and Conor, her daughter Christina and the entire family in your prayers.
“Our thoughts are with the family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time, and we are all sending them our sincerest sympathy and support. She will be sorely missed by pupils, staff and the local community.
“Ag smaoineamh ar ár gcara agus ar ár gcomhghleacaí. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sí.”
A parent of the school family said of Cathy: “Even when our kids had left primary school she always stopped and spoke to them. Thinking of all her friends and family.”
Another person added: “Heart-breaking news. Cathy’s name has been mentioned in our house regularly over the years with great affection. Rest in peace Cathy.”
A death notice described her as the beloved wife of Paul and loving mother to Paul, Kevin, Christina, Anto, Eoin and Conor and her niece Sinead, daughter of the late Patsy and Minnie and brother of the late Gerard (Chicken).
Cathy’s funeral mass will be held on Thursday in St Patricks Cathedral at 11am with burial afterwards in St Patrick’s cemetery.
