Funeral details confirmed for much-loved teacher

Reposal at St Jarlath's College Oratory

FUNERAL arrangements have been confirmed for Tuam teacher Andrew Carney whose sudden death has resulted in widespread sadness in the community.

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.

The school remained closed on Monday and will close again on Thursday to allow staff and students attend Mr Carney’s funeral.

He will repose at St Jarlath’s College Oratory on Wednesday from 4-8pm with Funeral Mass taking place at the Cathedral of the Assumption, Tuam, on Thursday at 2pm. Burial will take place afterwards in Tuam cemetery.

St Jarlath’s College will open for certain hours and student years on Tuesday and Wednesday with support in place for any student who may be affected by the teacher’s death. Special prayers will be said in the school over the coming days also.

“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,” stated Principal John Kelly.

Many tributes have been paid since his Andrew’s passing from the many community organisations he was involved in.

“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,” Tuam Stars GAA Club said.

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 and the Tuam Mill Museum committee.

Tuam Mental Health Association described Andrew as “a tenacious advocate for mental health awareness in the community”.

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

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Full funeral details are available here