There is widespread sadness in Portlaoise and surrounding areas following the death of John Duggan, a highly-regarded teacher in the local CBS secondary school for many years.
“It is with great shock and sadness that we learned of Mr John Duggan’s sudden passing today,” said a letter from Portlaoise CBS management to parents on Tuesday.
“John has been a valued staff member and a past pupil of St Mary’s CBS throughout his lifetime.
“We extend our sincere sympathies to his wife Anna, his parents, brother, sisters and extended family at this very sad time. May John rest in peace.
“Please talk with your sons this evening if possible before they come to school, as tomorrow will be a difficult day,” added the message.
John was widely known in teaching and sporting circles and was heavily involved in the school’s GAA teams over the years as well as with the Portlaoise GAA club, whom he played and coached with.
In 2004 he guided Portlaoise CBS to the All Ireland Colleges ‘B’ football final which they narrowly lost to St Louis of Kilkeel from Down.
John was also involved with the Portlaoise senior hurlers in recent years, working alongside Teddy Fennelly when the club reached the Leinster intermediate final in 2018.
As well as that he was a keen golfer and in 2017 helped a team of Portlaoise CBS and Portlaoise College staff to win the inaugural All Ireland Teachers Golf Championship.
Funeral details will be announced later.
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