The Royal School Armagh have led tributes to a “favourite” former teacher with a “deep connection” to College Hill.
Paying tribute to their former colleague and “founding” Technology Head of Department, David Geddis the Grammar and boarding school said fondly: “Davy, a Belfast boy, like so many of his contemporary colleagues, joined the staff of The Royal School in 1973 and completed his teaching career early this century.
“That period of time is itself remarkable, but two further generations attending the school show how deep the Geddis connection is with College Hill.
“David was appointed Head of Art and Design; however, in keeping with the size of the school, its boarding element, and the 1986 move to co-education, his participation in school life was wider and deeper.
“In the curriculum, he taught Art and Design, History of Art, and Technology, of which he was the founding Head of Department. Following co-education in 1986, he was in charge of Careers.
“Outside the classroom, theatrical sets would have been bare without his creative flourishes. In contrast, junior rugby teams were coached and cajoled by Davy for many seasons.
“Davy’s long and deep association with the school enabled him to contribute regularly and incisively to staff meetings. As a parent and ultimately a grandparent of school pupils, he had valuable insight to offer.
“Golf was a passion before and during retirement. Unfortunately, ill health struck, and his last years were challenging for Lyn, his wife (who passed away last year), son Patrick, and daughter-in-law Adele.
“The school offers its condolences to them and his granddaughters.”
A former pupil of Mr Geddis’ reflected on those memorable years under his tutelage, adding: “Undoubtedly one of my favourite teachers at the school, he rarely had to raise his voice as he simply commanded respect.
“He took a genuine interest in each pupil no matter your background which was huge for a quiet country boy like me.
“He helped me gain first in the class in technical drawing which was the only time in my life that I topped the class.
“I used to think the school wouldn’t be the same without Mr (Right) lol and his little sporty car which looked about 5cm off the road. Deepest sympathy to his family and friends.”
Mr Geddis died on October 29, peacefully at Collegelands Nursing Home.
A death notice described him as the dearly loved husband of the late Lyn (nee Patton), loving father of Patrick and father-in-law of Adele, much loved grandpa of Eve, Holly, Robyn, and Katie, also a dear brother of Peter and brother-in-law of Judith.
His Funeral Service will be held in The Cathedral Church of Saint Patrick, Armagh on Saturday November 1, at 12 noon, followed by interment in the adjoining churchyard.
Donations, if desired are gratefully received for Parkinsons NI, c/o David Cranston, Holmes of Dungannon.
