'End of an era': Popular Limerick school principal and musician remembered
Well-loved teacher, conductor and musical director remembered in Limerick
THE passing of musician and former school principal Dr Derbhile de Paor marks “a full stop - the end of an era”.
That’s the verdict of Richie Ryan, who followed in the footsteps of the popular educator as principal at Castleconnell National School.
Warm tributes have been paid following the passing of Dr de Paor, a mother-of-three, after an illness.
As well as being remembered by generations of students who attended the Castleconnell school where she worked from 2001 until her retirement in 2015, musicians across Limerick will also have fond memories of the Ballykeeffe woman.
She was the first female conductor in the more than 170-year history of the Boherbuoy Brass and Reed Band, and also performed the same role for the Cecilian Musical Society.
Students and staff at Castleconnell National School observed a moment of silence following the sad passing of Dr de Paor last month.
Mr Ryan said: “She left a legacy in the school. As an educator, she was a constant professional. Everything she did was child-centred. It was always about what was best for the children – every decision she made.”
It was a poignant day for many who worked alongside her, the current principal added.
"It was very sad. We tried our best to remember her. We took out old photos, and put them on the staff room tables. We lit a candle and reminisced a little bit on the day. We had a chat with all the classes who wouldn’t have known her, just to explain a bit about her,” he said.
The Boherbuoy Band wrote its own tribute on Facebook, recalling how Dr de Paor played flute with them for many years.
It was here she met her husband-to-be Ger Power.
"Derbhile took on the role of musical director of Boherbuoy from 2001 to 2013 and made history by becoming first female conductor of the Boherbuoy Brass and Reed Band. Derbhile and Ger’s daughters Doireann, Caoimhe and Cliodhna also played with the band. A very talented musical family,” they added.
Under her directorship, the band won the National Championships Intermediate Concert section in Wexford during 2008, before landing the National Championship twice – at Cork in 2009 and in Dublin two years later.
Upon retirement from Castleconnell National School, she enrolled at University of Limerick, inspiring a new generation of teachers and earning her doctorate.
Dr de Paor passed away at the Curam Ward in Milford Care Home on May 7 last.
The beloved wife of Ger, and the dearly loved mother of Doireann, Caoimhe and Clíodhna.
She is also sadly missed by her siblings Colman, Connor and Johanna, son-in-law James, Doireann’s partner Matthew, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.
May she rest in heavenly peace.