THERE has been deep sadness at the passing of Máire Coll, a teacher whose long years in education were spent largely in schools of her own parish in Gaoth Dobhair
Máire (née McGee) of Magheraclogher, Bunbeg passed away at Letterkenny University Hospital on Thursday last.
A highly respected and dedicated teacher, she was held in the greatest affection by generations of pupils and by the many teaching colleagues with whom she worked.
She had a natural gift for teaching and a warm and approachable manner which made her a special favourite among those fortunate enough to have been taught by her.
Máire was born in Bun an Bhaile, Magheraclogher in 1937 was one of two children born to Nappy Phaidí Bhig and Dónall Charlie Ned McGee.
She was educated at the former Knockastolar NS and passed the Preparatory examination and attended Coláiste Bhríde, Falcarragh. She later studied to become a teacher at Carysfort College, Dublin.
After her graduation her first teaching post was in Carraig Mhic Coigligh school close to Moville where she spent three years. From there she moved to teach in Loch Muc School close to Fintown and in 1961 she was appointed to the teaching staff of Scoil Chnoc Fola in Gaoth Dobhair.
This school closed in 1968 and Máire secured a post at Scoil Bhríde, Meenacladdy. In 1979 she moved close to her home when she got a teaching post in Scoil Chonaill, An Bun Beag. She remained teaching there until her retirement in 1993. She spent a total of 32 years teaching in her native parish.
Máire married Brianaí Johnny Thomais Chaitlíne of Derrybeg in 1961 and they had a new home built at Magheraclogher. He sadly passed away in 1985.
Those who enjoyed her company will remember her for her gentle nature, her friendliness and her ability to recall stories and incidents from years gone by. She had a wonderful appreciation of the people and places of her native parish and took great pride in its history.
Above all, she was a woman of deep and abiding faith. Her faith was a constant source of strength throughout her life and was reflected in the quiet and dignified way in which she lived.
Her passing marks an end of a life which touched the lives of many through education, friendship and community. Generations of former pupils will remember the lessons they learned from her, while her many friends and former colleagues will mourn the loss of a much admired and gracious woman.
Máire’s Funeral Mass took place on Sunday in St. Colmcille’s Church, Cnoc Fola, with burial afterwards in Magheragallon Cemetery.
The celebrant of the Mass was her good friend for many years, Fr Seán Ó Gallchóir and con-celebrant was Fr Brendan Ward. Current pupils from Scoil Chonall, Bunbeg provided a guard of honour as the remains were brought into the church.
Máire was predeceased by her husband, Brianaí, sister, Kitty Folan, Rathoath, Co Meath, brother-in-law, Michael Folan and nephew, Mark Folan. She will be sadly missed by her daughter Tara, son-in-law Adriano and extended family and friends.
Suaimhneas na bhFlaithleas dá hanam.
– Tommy Curran.