St Mary’s College remembers "outstanding teacher" and mentor Gerardine Doherty

Heartfelt tributes have been paid following the passing of Mrs. Gerardine Doherty (née O’Doherty), a beloved former teacher and spiritual leader at St Mary’s College. Gerardine passed away peacefully on Monday, December 16 2025, at Melmount Care Home, surrounded by her family.

Gerardine was a cornerstone of the St Mary’s College community. During her distinguished tenure, she served as Head of Religious Studies, Liturgical Co-ordinator, and Head of Senior School. In a statement, the college praised her leadership, noting it was marked by "gentleness, compassion, and grace," and highlighted her enduring legacy through the school prayer she helped compose, which is still recited daily at assemblies.

“She gave So much of herself to the school - not only as an outstanding teacher but also through her many productions, where she nurtured pupils' talents. Gerardine was a role model for staff and pupils and was deeply respected and loved within and beyond our community.”

She also extended her service to the wider community as a volunteer with the Derry Catechetical Centre, where she was known as a "true lady" who shared her faith and gifts so generously.

Formerly of Rinmore Drive, Gerardine was the loving mother of Connor, Diarmuid, Catriona and Niall, dear mother-in-law to Helen, Jenny and Gerard and a devoted grandmother and aunt to her nieces and nephews, dear daughter of the late Gerard and Isobel, cherished sister of Therese, Maeve, Fr. Colm and Cathal.

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Gerardine's remains will be reposing at her home, 37 Brookhill. House Private from 10:00pm to 10:00am.

Funeral leaving her home on Thursday, December 18 at 10:20am to Our Lady Of Lourdes Church, Steelstown for Requiem Mass at 11:00am. Interment afterwards in the City Cemetery.