Sadness in Derry at the death of Patrick (Paddy) Hume

There was deep sadness in Derry and the North West as news emerged of the death of Mr Patrick Hume, the former head of governors at St Cecilia’s College in the city.

Fondly known as Paddy, Mr Hume was the brother of the late John Hume MP, Nobel Laureate and former leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party. He passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Mr Hume, formerly of 6, Iona Park in Derry, was predeceased by his wife Brigid in February 2022. He was the loving father of Paul, Brenda, Fiona, Ursula, Una and Seana; father-in-law of Maria, Tommy, John, David, Ray and Brendan; a devoted grandfather; and brother of Jim and the late John, Annie, Harry, Agnes and his twin Sally.

His daughter, Brenda, took up the family’s political mantle, winning election to Derry City Council, serving for nine years, and becoming Mayor in June 2014.

Mrs Stevenson was the final mayor of Derry City Council before the formation of the new super-councils in 2015.

Although much of Mr Hume’s working life was spent as a nurse manager in several nursing homes locally, he was also dedicated to his role as chairperson of the board of governors of St Cecilia’s College in the city.

So much so, Mr Hume received the prestigious National Governor of the Year award at the annual National Teaching Awards Ceremony held in London, in 2006.

The awards were established by Lord Puttnam in 1998 to celebrate the exceptional achievements of teachers, heads, teaching assistants and governors in the North and Britain.

At the time of his award, Mr Hume had served as a governor at the school for 14 years and had spent the last five as chairperson.

On receipt of his award, Mr Hume was described by colleagues as an invaluable mentor, a charismatic larger-than-life character who has brought an informed perspective on special needs to the school, thanks to his background in the healthcare industry.

A modest Mr Hume said: “I am  absolutely delighted. I feel very humbled but also very proud not only for St Cecilia’s College but for my hometown.

"To be recognised for voluntary efforts such as these is absolutely brilliant."

Mr Hume, who retired in 2005, became involved with St Cecilia's College because four of his five daughters had attended the school.

"It was my way of giving back to the school," he said "Now that I have retired I am able to give more of my time to the school."

The father-of-six, earned himself the nickname 'No Problem Paddy' for his flexible, forward-thinking approach to work within the school. He was a driving force in cross-community projects and was a strong supporter of the school's successful bid to become a performing arts specialist school.

A minute's silence was observed by Bonagee United FC players prior to their Ulster Senior Cup semi-final against Greencastle FC. to remember Paddy Hume, the grandfather of Seán Hume and also senior ladies players Caitlin and Coilín.

Paddy’s wake will commence in his home on Monday at 1.00pm. Funeral from there on Wednesday at 9.30am for 10o’clock Requiem Mass in St Columba’s Church, Longtower. Interment afterwards in the City cemetery. Family time please from 9.00pm to 11.00am.

Mr Patrick Hume, Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam uasal.