Huge sadness at sudden death of Tuam teacher

Highly regarded in the community

THERE is huge shock and widespread sadness following the sudden death of well-known Tuam teacher Andrew Carney.

The 49-year-old was a much-loved teacher at St Jarlath’s College in Tuam where he enjoyed sharing his passion for English and History for many years. He was a huge sports fan and was heavily involved in football in the school and with Tuam Stars GAA Club.

Andrew also loved drama and theatre and enjoyed huge success with his self-penned one-act play The Prodigal. He also volunteered with many organisations in the community, including Tuam Mental Health Association.

People in Tuam have been numbed by his death and many tributes have been paid since his passing.

School will be closed

St Jarlath’s College will remain closed on Monday. Principal John Kelly said that the school community has been devastated by the news.

“We are heartbroken that our beloved colleague Andrew Carney passed away suddenly last night. It is deeply shocking for everyone that knew him,” stated Mr Kelly in a notice to parents, guardians and students.

“Andrew was such a huge part of our school community, and it will take us a lot of time to process this news.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Andrew’s family, friends, colleagues and students and the wider community of which he was such a big part,” added Mr Kelly.

Tuam Stars GAA Club has published an online tribute to their Club PRO stating that Andrew had given an enormous amount of his time, energy and passion to the club.

“He was a friend, a mentor and a constant source of encouragement to so many of our players, coaches and members … we are immensely grateful for everything he did for Tuam Stars,” stated the notice.

“As a teacher, mentor and colleague, Andrew influenced the lives of countless young people.

“He was deeply involved in so many aspects of community life in Tuam and his passing will be felt throughout the entire town and far beyond it.

“He was someone who gave freely of his time and who genuinely cared about the people and the community around him,” the Club representative said.

Tuam Mental Health Association described Andrew as “a tenacious advocate for mental health awareness in the community”. He has been a committed and involved member of the organisation’s board and “will be missed and remembered with much respect and fondness”.

Andrew is survived by his heartbroken family - his father Jim (former Sports Editor of The Tuam Herald), mother Claire, sister Jennifer and nephew Jamie, as well as so many relatives, friends and colleagues.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.