Tributes have flooded in following the sad passing of a “dedicated” school vice-principal – and devoted mother-of-three – who passed away peacefully at Evora Hospice in Newry on Friday.
Fionnuala Hartigan, vice-principal of St Patrick’s College, in Banbridge – and who lived in Newry – is described as a much-loved wife to Ciaran and a devoted mother to Eoin, Orla and Kate. She was the cherished daughter of Raymond and Patricia, and a dear sister to Orla and Declan.
Her death has sent shockwaves through the school community and far beyond, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from former pupils, colleagues, parents and friends who remembered her as a “compassionate” educator, a fiercely loyal advocate for young people – but most of all a “genuine and deeply caring individual”.
St Patrick’s College led tributes following devastating news on Friday afternoon.
“Our school community is beyond heartbroken that we must announce the passing of our dearly beloved friend and colleague, our vice-principal, Fionnuala Hartigan,” the school said.
“Words cannot describe the terrible void that this devastating news has left in our school and in our hearts.”
Ms Hartigan dedicated 27 years of her life to St Patrick’s College, having joined the school in 1998 as a teacher of Business and ICT before progressing into senior leadership. Throughout her career, she was known for her unwavering commitment to pupils and her child-centred approach to education.
“Fionnuala believed deeply in the potential of every young person and worked tirelessly to ensure their well-being and success were at the heart of everything we did,” the statement continued.
“As a vice-principal, her commitment to creating a positive, vibrant and inclusive learning and working environment was unparalleled.”
The school described her as a dedicated educator, a compassionate role model and a selfless leader whose impact would be felt for generations to come.
“The impact of Fionnuala’s loving presence and selfless leadership has undoubtedly touched countless lives over these last twenty-seven years, and her loss will undoubtedly be felt deeply throughout our community for many years to come.”
The school extended its deepest sympathies to her husband, children, parents and siblings, and announced that a book of condolences would be open in the school assembly hall on Saturday, December 6 from 1pm to 3pm.
Tributes posted online reflect the profound impact Ms Hartigan had on those around her.
One former pupil wrote: “She wasn’t just a vice principal — she was someone who truly cared about us as people. She encouraged me, believed in me and made school feel like a place where I could grow and be myself. Her kindness will never be forgotten.”
Another tribute described her as someone who “always went above and beyond, always did what she did discreetly and with the biggest heart”, adding that she was “one of a kind”.
Colleagues paid warm tribute to her professionalism and friendship, with one writing: “It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside you all these years. I will miss you dearly as both a colleague and a friend.”
Others described her as “the loveliest, most gentle person” and “a genuinely lovely woman who cared so passionately about the wellbeing of the young people in her care”.
Ms Hartigan’s remains will repose at her family home at 4 The Forge, Hilltown Road, Newry, on Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 9pm. House private until 1pm on Saturday. Removal will take place on Monday for 12.30pm Funeral Mass in St Catherine’s Church, Dominic Street, followed by burial in Monkshill Cemetery.
She is deeply regretted by her sorrowing husband, children, parents, brother, sister, wider family circle and friends.
As the St Patrick’s College community continues to come to terms with their loss, the memory of Fionnuala Hartigan’s kindness, dedication and unwavering belief in young people will endure long into the future.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.”
