Teacher Rory O’Neill retires from Crana College

Crana College has bid farewell to Rory O'Neill, a much-valued member of staff who retired last week after 30 years at the Buncrana school.

A native of Letterbarrow in south Donegal, Rory graduated from NUI Galway in 1988 with a Bachelor of Science and Higher Diploma in Education, beginning what would become a long and dedicated career in education.

His first teaching job was in Coolmine CS in Dublin, and he later taught in Stranorlar and Milford before joining the staff at Crana College in 1996.

Science was always a passion for Rory and he taught Physics, Biology and Agricultural Science in Crana. He later took on the role of Home School Community Liaison at Crana College, a position in which his empathy and compassion were particularly valued. He also served as an assistant principal and year head, bringing the same dedication and care to each of his roles.

“I am certain that during retirement Rory will spend most of his time working on his musical talents, hiking or cooking up various masterpieces,” acting principal Philip McGuinness said.

“As a colleague within the science department and in his role as an AP1 and year head, Rory has always been the consummate professional. He was dedicated to all his roles, generous with his time and full of compassion. As a friend and in life, he has always been kind and trustworthy.

“We will all genuinely miss Rory and we thank him so much for his many years of service and wish him and his lovely family well in the future.”