A Moy Primary School have paid tribute to the life of their former Headmaster, a man who shaped the lives of many children in the area, Mr Bertie Carson.
Mr Carson passed away – aged 100 – at Nazareth Care Home on February 27, 2026. He had been Headmaster of St John’s Primary School for an impressive 26 years.
And, you can’t have been Headmaster for over a quarter of a century and not have left your mark.
Marking his life and remarkable career, the school penned a tribute to the memorable and “esteemed” Mr Carson starting with his vital contribution to the school’s first days: “Master Carson was the first principal of the new St John’s Primary School when it opened in 1965.
“He was appointed principal in 1963 after teaching for some years in Holywood Co. Down.
“Master Carson was heavily involved in the coordination of the opening of St. John’s Primary following the amalgamation of the Boys’ and Girls’ National Schools at that time.
“It was noted that he spent some time teaching in the Parochial Hall during the building of the new school.”
Speaking of Mr Carson’s milestone 100th birthday in January, they added: “At that time we heard from many past pupils who remember Master Carson and his time as teacher and Principal with fondness.
“There are cherished memories also, among his former colleagues in St. John’s Moy community, of his time here until he retired in June 1989.”
Together with his wife, the late May – who was also a devoted teacher at the school – Mr Carson left an “indelible mark” on the school community and educated and guided generations of children in the area.
“The Carson family resided in Jockey Lane and Bertie immersed himself into his new community devoting time and energy during and out of school hours,” continued St John’s PS. “He was a founder member of The Moy Citizens’ Association which was established in 1964. This group instigated many new initiatives in the community and organised popular charitable events and festivals over many years.
“Master Carson was deeply respected and fondly thought of by pupils, staff, and families alike.
“He will always hold a special place in the heart of our school community. The children, staff, parents and Governors, both present and past, offer up our prayers and condolences to the entire Carson family. We thank Master Carson for his decades of dedicated service to our community.
“Our thoughts are with them at this most difficult of times. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.”
