Tribute paid to beloved Derry teacher Catherine Parsons

A poignant tribute has been paid to Derry teacher Catherine Parsons who has sadly died.

The long-serving Oakgrove Integrated College teacher died suddenly in Bulgaria last month.

In an emotional tribute posted on its Facebook page, Oakgrove Integrated College described Catherine as 'a cherished member of the Oakgrove community'.

The post stated: "The entire Okgrove family – past and present – comes together in sorrow as we mourn the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Catherine (Parsons) McKinney.

“For 27 years, Catherine has been cherished member of our Oakgrove community.

“As Head of History she taught and led with passion and dedication. As a teacher and form teacher she guided countless young people, nurturing their unique spirits, passions and personalities, helping to shape futures.

“Catherine touched innumerable lives through her teaching and her gentle presence in Oakgrove's halls.

“Ever the professional, she cared deeply for each individual, sharing kindness, warmth and humour with students and staff alike.

“We are all enriched by the lasting imprint of her love and grace.

“She lived out the values of integrated education, acting from a deep belief in the equal worth of every person.

“Catherine celebrated the diversity of our community, our shared and varied histories and the truth that people who are not like us are people just like us.

“Our thoughts, prayers and love go out to Catherine's beloved daughters, her husband, her parents and her siblings in this time of sorrow.

“We are deeply grateful for the tributes and messages of sympathy and solidarity that have been shared with us. They are a testament to the goodness Catherine brought into the world.

“We hold close in our best thoughts all who mourn Catherine in the days to come.”

Catherine was the beloved wife of Alex, loving mother of Darla and Willow, cherished daughter of Desi and Martina, daughter-in-law of Mary and Alex, dear sister of Desi, Gareth, Conor and Claire and a much loved sister-in-law, aunt and friend.

Catherine’s remains will be reposing in her sister’s home 97 Templegrove from 2 pm on Sunday. Funeral from there on Tuesday at 9.30am for 10am Requiem Mass in Holy Family Church, Ballymagroarty. Interment afterwards in the City Cemetery.

Family time from 8pm – 12 noon please.

Family flowers only. Donations in Catherine’s memory can be made to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, via: https://www.justgiving.com/page/inmemoryofcatherine?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&fbclid=IwY2xjawMEQJVleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBvMk1kc21QT2owemJ5QUZIAR7R0ynSCHMpqXlTqmF_LkWS5nrBwYnsJ81Fo4iIhbpcsODipFd5jcaKP0fUvg_aem_yQ7tN6uU7i2axCKFwl06eQ