Nora Friel RIP

Loreto Letterkenny school principal, Ms Nora Friel, has passed away.

Ms Friel passed away yesterday at Letterkenny University Hospital following an illness.

Originally from Carrigart but living in Letterkenny, Ms Friel was also an accomplished musician.

She dedicated her life to her work and to her pupils in each school she taught. Ms Friel will be remembered as a tireless champion of her students’ endeavours and achievements.

Education Minister Joe McHugh said: “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.”

Relay for Life in Donegal was one of the many groups which Nora helped quietly down through the years.

A spokesperson said: “It was with great sadness that we heard today of the untimely passing of Ms Nora Friel. Nora was Principal of Loreto Secondary School in Letterkenny and a wonderful friend to all of us connected with Relay for Life Donegal.

“Nora was instrumental in helping us and indeed encouraged us to proceed with our Education and Awareness programme for Secondary Schools in the County. She played a key role in its implementation in 2013 / 2014 and all subsequent years.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Nora’s family at this difficult time for them.”

The Blaze Basketball team also paid tribute to their long-time supporter.

They said: “Ms Friel had such a positive influence on all the girls, always there with a smiling face to support them with whatever challenges they encountered. She was dearly loved and will be sadly missed.”

The remains of Ms Friel are reposing at her paternal home, Umlagh, Carrigart.

Her funeral mass takes place this Thursday at the Church of St John the Baptist at 11am with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Loreto Convent in Letterkenny will remain closed this Thursday and Friday as a mark of respect to Ms Friel.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dhílís