St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen have paid tribute to a “valued” member of their team and “truly special person”.
In paying tribute to Kathleen McCombe – who passed away on July 27 – the school described the Cullyhanna woman’s death as an “enormous loss for our school family”.
A spokesperson for St Joseph’s said: “Kathleen was not only a kind and dedicated colleague, but a truly special person who made a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.
“We feel incredibly lucky to have known her and to have worked alongside her last year.
“Kathleen had a wonderful way with our pupils — always calm, caring, and thoughtful. Her reassuring presence meant so much to the children she supported in class and to the girls she cared for during break and lunchtime supervision, where there was always fun, kindness, and laughter. Kathleen loved the banter.
“Our heart goes out to her husband Joe and her son Conor and his fiancée Sarah, her sister Ann and brothers Tommy, Peter and Oliver and all the McCombe and Keenan family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“We also remember Kathleen’s late brother Michael and her late parents Michael and Mary RIP. Kathleen’s passing will be deeply felt by so many. We hold them in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time as we remember Kathleen with love and gratitude.”
In addition to the school’s tribute several of Kathleen’s former colleagues have seconded the sentiments shared, with one adding: “Kathleen was a lady. So blessed to have had the pleasure to work alongside her and see the care and support she gave to our students. Condolences to her family at this sad time.”
She was known far and wide for her patience and consideration of others.
A truly popular person among her local community, she had a warm smile and loved nothing more than to have a laugh with anyone who crossed her path.
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues and pupils.
A death notice described Kathleen as the loving wife of Joe, cherished mother of Conor, sister of Ann (Morgan), Tommy, Peter, Oliver and the late Michael and daughter of the late Michael and Mary RIP.
Her funeral will take place at St Patrick’s Church, Cullyhanna on Friday August 1, for 11 o’clock requiem mass with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
