'A gentleman and a scholar' - Mayo community mourns loss of beloved former teacher and vice principal

Tributes have flooded in following the passing of former teacher Joe Gilmartin of Castlebar.

Joe sadly died surrounded by his family after a short illness on Thursday, February 6. 

Joe served as a teacher and vice principal in St Gerald's DLS College in Castlebar from 1954 to 1993. Always a community man, this is where Joe went to school himself from 1942 to 1947.

The beloved teacher's death has had a huge impact on the community of Castlebar, with many paying tribute to Joe online to share their fond memories and admiration for him as well as to express their sympathies with his family. 

His old school paid homage to their former teacher on social media, saying: "Joe devoted over four decades to shaping generations of students and helping build the legacy of our school."

St Gerald's tribute to Joe continued to say: "Joe was a true gentleman—kind, compassionate, and deeply respected by all who knew him. His sharp wit and intellect made him a captivating presence in both the classroom and the staffroom, where he enriched conversations with his wisdom and humour.

"He initially taught Latin before finding his home as our master of French, a role in which he inspired countless students to not only learn the language but to appreciate its culture and beauty. Fluent in seven languages, Joe’s brilliance was evident, but it was always shared with humility and grace.

Another shared: "You taught more than French. By your manner you taught what a gentleman is, your good example and your kindness will always be remembered. You wore your intelligence lightly, but passed on so much of decency, goodness and culture. Blessed to have you as a teacher and as a mentor to look up to."

Joe will be greatly missed by the entire Castlebar community. 

Joe will repose in Coady’s Funeral Home in Castlebar on this evening Friday, 7 February from 5.30pm with removal at 7pm to his home. Removal from his residence will take place on Saturday morning, 8 February at 10.30am for Requiem Mass at 11.30am in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar. Joe will be laid to rest afterwards in Castlebar New Cemetery.