The Loreto Letterkenny school community is in mourning following the sad passing of Ms Nora Friel.
The much-loved and highly respected school principal died in Letterkenny University Hospital on Monday 5th November.
Ms Friel is being fondly remembered through warm tributes celebrating her lasting legacy on the school and the wider community.
A spokesperson for Loreto Letterkenny said: “It is with deep sadness and regret that we share the loss of our dear Principal, colleague and friend Ms Nora Friel. We keep Ms Friel’s family in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
“Anyone who encountered Ms Friel will surely have a fond memory or wee story to share.
“Ms Friel never forgot a face and took great care in making people feel valued, respected and cared for.
“She was incredibly proud of all the students and staff of Loreto Letterkenny and recognised the strengths of each individual. She was a woman on an endless mission to encourage, support and inspire us all to be the best we can be.
“As a school community we consider ourselves very lucky to have had the benefit of her kindness and dedication for so many years.
“She was an absolute treasure and her presence will be sorely missed by all at Loreto Letterkenny.
“We also take this opportunity to thank the wider community for condolences and kind words.”
The late Nora Friel, RIP.
Education Minister Joe McHugh has extended his condolences to the family of Ms Friel, saying: “We have lost a wonderful friend, neighbour and former colleague with the passing of Nora Friel.
“Nora’s impact on education will leave a lasting legacy. Her influence on so many students as a teacher and as a school principal, and her positive impact on the education system through her role as inspector, will always be remembered.
“I would like to extend my personal sympathy to Nora’s family and to her other close family unit at Loreto Secondary School in Letterkenny at this very difficult time for all of them.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dhílís.”
Ms Friel’s funeral will take place in her native Carrigart on Thursday, 8th November.
Loreto Convent in Letterkenny will remain closed this Thursday and Friday as a mark of respect to Ms Friel.
Tags: