An Armagh primary school have paid tribute to the life of a “very special lady” and longstanding classroom assistant who passed away earlier this week.
Roberta Irwin – from Markethill – passed away on February 15, 2026. For over three decades she had been a core part of the Saints and Scholars’ faculty and in that time had ingrained herself in every aspect of school life.
Paying tribute to their esteemed colleague, who will be forever remembered, Saints and Scholars said: “For 32 years, Roberta was an integral part of our school staff and, in that time, she made an extraordinary and lasting impact on generations of pupils, colleagues and families.
“For many pupils, she was one of the first faces they met each morning on the school bus or when they entered the P1 classroom.
“Roberta showed kindness, warmth and unwavering dedication in all aspects of her role at Saints and Scholars. She was, quite simply, one in a million.
“Roberta’s passion for children was clear to everyone who had the privilege of working alongside her. She had a natural gift for making every child feel seen, valued and safe.
“Whether it was a reassuring word, a warm smile at the classroom door, or the countless small acts of care that often go unnoticed, Roberta consistently went above and beyond for every child in her care.
“Her presence in our classrooms and corridors brought comfort, laughter and a sense of belonging. She supported not only pupils, but colleagues and families too, always offering encouragement and practical help wherever it was needed.
“She was a constant presence, a steady support and a friend.”
Understandably, they say the school community has been left “incredibly heartbroken”, with her absence being profoundly felt. But, they say, “her legacy lives on in the lives of the many children she nurtured and the colleagues she inspired over three decades of devoted service”.
Saints and Scholars extended their heartfelt condolences to Roberta’s family circle at this deeply difficult and heart-breaking time, adding that they all “remain very much in our thoughts and prayers as we mourn the loss of a truly remarkable woman” who will “always hold a special place in the heart of our school”.
Echoing the school’s sentiments, countless others have taken to social media to share their sympathies and fondest memories of Roberta.
Said one former colleague: “Deeply saddened to hear of the loss of our dear colleague and friend.
“Roberta was kind, caring, and completely devoted to the children, who absolutely adored her. As staff, we could always rely on her — a steadfast, experienced and utterly reliable presence whose support meant so much to us all. The impact Roberta had on our school community cannot be overstated.
“She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones at this very difficult time.”
Another added: “I’m so very sad to hear the news of Roberta’s passing. I have many fond memories of her, not only as a classroom assistant at Saints & Scholars, but as a role model for so many pupils over the last few decades.
“She had such a caring nature and had time for everyone, teachers, parents and pupils.
“I’m not sure what else to say, but to see all of the lovely comments of condolence it’s very clear how much everyone loved Roberta. Sincere condolences to her friends, family and colleagues and all those she inspired over the years.”
A death notice described Roberta as the much loved mother of Claire and Jonathan, dear mother-in-law of Philip, devoted nannie of Isla and Lucy, cherished sister of Jackie, Ann, Dorothy, Beatrice and Lorraine and a dear sister-in-law and aunt.
Her house and funeral are strictly private at Roberta’s own request.
Donations, if desired, are being gratefully accepted for PIPS or Samaritans, with cheques made payable to Jackson Stoops & Sons, Funeral Directors.
