Tributes are pouring in for 28-year-old Alan Feeley who passed away suddenly from a brain haemorrhage on Tuesday evening.
The secondary school teacher who taught Geography and PE was originally from Claremorris, Co. Mayo, but had been teaching at Scoil na Tríonóide Naofa in Doon, Co. Limerick, for the past five years.
Reports say Alan was in the gym on Monday evening when he collapsed. He was rushed to hospital but passed away on Tuesday.
The school principal, Eilis Casey, said: “It doesn’t make sense... He was without doubt an inspirational young man, hardworking, a fabulous teacher and excellent athlete and sportsman. We are very sad and extremely saddened for his mum and dad, his brothers and his girlfriend. Our grief is a shade compared to theirs today.”
Mr Feeley played with the Old Crescent RFC thirds team in Limerick and also played football with Claremorris GAA club.
“As a teacher he was very innovative and PE was so enjoyable for the girls. He was very popular. There was an ease and calmness about him,” said the principal, who recalled that he coached pupils to a Munster Gaelic football title last year. He also introduced spikeball to the school and brought them to two All-Ireland finals.
“Straight away you could see his outstanding qualities of determination and leadership. As a practitioner of his subjects - PE and geography - he was outstanding,” Ms Casey commended Mr Feeley.
Tributes are pouring in for popular teacher Alan Feeley
The club secretary of Clareorris GAA, John Gannon, also spoke warmly about Mr Feeley: “The members of the GAA club and the community are all deeply saddened and in total shock at the loss of Alan.
“He played a senior league match here in Claremorris on Sunday and turned-in his usual impressive performance. Its very hard to comprehend that he is no longer with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Friends and students voiced their shock and grief on social media site Twitter.
Limerick hurler Stephen Walsh said: “Alan Feeley - super athlete and sound guy. Sad and shocking news, puts everything into perspective. Live each day to its fullest.”
One of his pupils tweeted: “Longest day at school ever. It just doesn’t seem real. RIP Alan Feeley, not just a teacher but a role model and friend.”
A funeral mass for Mr Feeley will be held tomorrow at St. Colman’s Church, Claremorris at 2:30pm.
