'A teaching legend' - funeral of Derry man killed in suspected hit-and-run to take place later this week

The funeral of a man who was killed in a suspected hit-and-run near Dungiven at the weekend will take place later this week. 

Paddy Flanagan, a retired teacher from the Waterside area of Derry, died in hospital a short time after being found seriously injured on the Foreglen Road, Dungiven in the early hours of Sunday morning.  

Police are continuing to investigate the tragic death and have stated that they believe the father-of-one was struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run road traffic collision. 

A death notice, published this evening, describes Mr Flanagan as ‘the beloved husband of Paula, loving father of Sian, cherished son of Patricia and the late Eamon and dear brother of Sean, Michael, Margaret, Geraldine, Pauline, Eamon, Kevin, Seamus and Noel’.

The 69 year-old’s wake will commence at his Prehen home tomorrow (Wednesday).

Paddy’s funeral will leave from there on Friday at 10.20am for 11am Requiem Mass in The Church of the Immaculate Conception, Trench Road. 

Interment will take place afterwards in the City cemetery.

The death notice stated that donations can be made in lieu of flowers, if wished, to Air Ambulance. 

Tributes have been paid online to Mr Flanagan, who previously taught at St Columba’s Primary School in Newbuildings. 

One post read: “Heartbreaking news, a teaching legend who influenced the lives of so many children and a friend to many, rest in peace Paddy, condolences to your whole family.”

A former pupil of Mr Flanagan’s added: “Thinking of his whole family.  He was the best P7 teacher. So many laughs and made our last year of primary school at St Columba's memorable.  RIP to a true legend!”