School closes as mark of respect after teacher’s death

AN Omagh school has closed today (Tuesday) as a mark of respect for a popular teacher who died at the weekend.

In a post on Facebook yesterday evening, Drumragh Integrated College announced the closure as it confirmed the sad death of Head of the Technology Department, Christopher McConnell, on Sunday.

Requiem Mass for the father-of-two, who lived on Gorticashel Road, will be heard at St Patrick’s Church, Gortin at 11am this morning, with interment afterwards in the adjoining graveyard.

Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, the funeral will be private (strictly family only). However, the service is also being broadcast on the Gortin Parish’s YouTube channel.

Paying tribute to the long-serving staff member, a letter addressed to parents of children at Drumragh stated, “We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our much-loved and respected colleague Christopher McConnell who passed away yesterday.

“Christopher will be greatly missed by everyone here at Drumragh College and by his many past students.”

Mr McConnell is survived by mother Bridie, wife Mary, children Clara and James, and siblings, Dolores, Dermot, Barry, Seamus and Elaine.

He was pre-deceased by his father Peter and brother John.