Tributes paid to much-loved mother of three
Warm tributes have been paid this week to the much-loved principal of Lanesboro Community College, Ms. Bernice Martin (Treacy), who passed away last Thursday following a long illness.
The mother of three, who was a hard-working and highly respected member of the local community, was laid to rest in Scramogue Cemetery on Sunday afternoon last.
Acting principal of Lanesboro Community College, Michael Lyons, said the entire school community was heartbroken.
“Throughout our time working together, Bernice always had energy and vision but she also had time to speak with everyone. She had a sparkling sense of humour, always had a smile on her face and a wonderful laugh. I never saw her in bad form,” he said.
“She had this wonderful ability to make you feel relaxed and motivated all at the same time! She was also the consummate professional and always said it as it was. She was honest and straight and yet had this way of putting you at ease too.
“We are all heartbroken for her husband Eric and their three children. We did what Bernice would have wanted on Monday and returned to our studies, but this week we will take the time to remember her and we will be asking students and staff to share their memories of Bernice,” he said.
Local Fianna Fáil Senator Eugene Murphy also offered his sympathies to Bernice’s family and friends this week.
Describing Bernice as a lovely neighbour and friend, Senator Murphy said the whole community was deeply shocked and very saddened by her passing.
“She had an amazing dedication to education and in her short life she has left an everlasting positive mark.
“Bernice had a lovely, caring attitude to her students in Lanesboro and I understand she left a similar impression during her time in Columba College, Killucan. Her contribution to education has been highly significant and her passion for her profession was unquestionable,” he said.
Extending his sympathies to her family, Senator Murphy said: “I can only describe her as a lovely person, always smiling and always dedicated to her family and school pupils”.
Bernice is sadly missed by her loving husband Eric, children Ella, Ava and Conor, parents Hugh and Bridget, sisters Gloria and Edel and brother Hughie, Eric’s parents John and Ann, siblings Ian and Aislinn, extended family, neighbours and friends.
