Tributes paid on passing of beloved Coalisland teacher

FORMER colleagues and students have paid tribute, following the passing of Eamon McNally who taught at St Joseph’s College in Coalisland for over 30 years.

Mr McNally passed away suddenly, and peacefully, on Monday. A popular and well known figure in the local community, he retired in 2003. He began his career in the college in the early 1970’s as a teacher of History and Religious Education.

In a tribute from the school, he was described as “a pastoral leader and a man of strong faith, always putting St Joseph’s College and its pupils first”.

It also stated that he was “delighted” when his daughter Louise Kerr followed in his footsteps, joining the teaching staff at the college in 1997.

Coalisland Fianna GAA club also paid tribute to Mr McNally who was a long-time member and former player.

Current and past staff and pupils from St Joseph’s College attended his funeral Mass yesterday (Wednesday) at The Church of the Holy Family, Coalisland followed by interment at St Joseph’s cemetery on the Brackaville Road.

Mr McNally is survived by his wife Marie (Nee Ferguson), daughters Sinéad, Louise, Eilís and Nuala, grandchildren, siblings and a wide family circle.