The death has taken place of Ted Laffey from Irishtown, Mountmellick. He was 62 years of age.
Ted was the much beloved and highly respected former principal of Scoil Bhríde in Knockmay, Portlaoise. He had also previously taught in Sacred Heart Boys NS in Ballygall, Dublin.
As principal of Scoil Bhríde he was one of the pioneering figures in the development of the school and one of the driving forces in ensuring that Scoil Bhríde got its much needed new school to cater for its growing numbers and expansion, at a time when hundreds of the school population were accommodated in prefabs on the school playground.
He was a progressive and patient principal who led by example and ensured inclusion for students of all persuasions and from many parts of the world, as well as children from all over Portlaoise parish.
Ted is fondly remembered by scores of past pupils and highly regarded by parents, colleagues and pupils alike.
He encouraged widespread participation in the school’s affairs with the parent’s council and was highly active within the Board of Management of the school.
Despite numerous setbacks he persevered with the campaign and planning for a new school and in the end his constructive approach along with others led to ultimate success.
Ted took early retirement on health grounds when he contracted cancer, but even this did not diminish his commitment to Scoil Bhríde, his interest in the welfare of others and his overall passion for life.
Undeterred, he retained an active interest in the progress of the new school building with his successor, staff and board of management at Scoil Bhríde.
When possible, Ted pursued his past times and was an avid gardener. He took courses in horticulture and found great joy from propagating fruit, flowers and vegetables in his polytunnel.
He had a great love of nature and also liked to take trips with his family in their motorhome.
Picture: Alf Harvey.
Never one to complain he faced his long illness with great dignity and courage and always with a smile.
Ted passed away very peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Ted is survived by his best friend and wife Mary, loving sisters Anne and Mary, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, many friends and colleagues.
Picture: Alf Harvey.
For those wishing to pay their respects Ted will be reposing at Moloney’s Funeral Home, Mountmellick today, Monday, July 8, from 5 to 8pm.
An ecumenical funeral liturgy will be held in St. Joseph’s Church, Mountmellick at 11am tomorrow, Tuesday, July 9, followed by private cremation.
No flowers by request. Donations if desired to Laois Home Care. House strictly private.
Picture: Alf Harvey.
May he rest in peace.
SEE ALSO – In Pictures: Incredible scenes as Laois hurlers defeat Dublin
