RIP: 'A wonderful teacher' - Tributes paid to former Kilkenny school figure
The rural community of Conahy is grieving following the passing of Michael Hester
Tributes have been paid to a former Kilkenny school principal who has sadly passed away.
Michael Hester, late of Conahy, County Kilkenny and formerly of Brickens, County Mayo, passed away peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital on Monday evening.
He is predeceased by his parents Sean and Evelyn, brothers Joe and Tom, sister Bernadette and nephew Robert.
He will be sadly missed by his wife Mary, daughters Aoibhlinn and Doireann, sons Diarmuid and Cathal, sons-in-law Harry and Hisham and daughters-in-law Róisín and George.
He is also deeply regretted by his grandchildren Elliot, Bernadette, Edith, Henry, Lochlann, Marty and Lena, brothers Brendan and Sean, and by his many friends, relatives, neighbours and past-pupils.
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A number of Michael’s former pupils have paid tribute to him in an online book of condolences.
One former student said: “I had the pleasure of being in his English class, he was an excellent teacher and principal. He looked out for everyone.”
Another mourner described Michael as a “wonderful teacher and confidant”.
Meanwhile, a former student wrote: “I have such fond memories of my time in Castlecomer Community School, where he was not only a principal but a teacher who brought humour, warmth, and real character to the school.
“There were plenty of laughs along the way, and he was truly a one-of-a-kind leader.
“He knew all of his students by name, and even years later, when you’d meet him outside of school, he still remembered his past pupils.
“Thinking of his family and all who knew him at this sad time.
Meanwhile, a couple said that the late teacher had “instilled in us a love of literature that has sustained us throughout our lives”.
Similarly, another former student said: “Michael was a terrific English teacher and instilled a love of poetry and plays that has stayed with me all of my life”.
Others noted his involvement with Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club and the wider parish community.
Michael will repose at his home in Conahy on Friday, May 8 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm followed by prayers and removal to St. Colman’s Church, Conahy.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 9 at 1pm, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. May Michael rest in peace.