A former Co Tyrone school principal has been praised for her humility and work with the sick.
Sr Anthony Devlin, who was a past principal of St Patrick's Girls’ Academy in Dungannon, died on Monday at Ashbrook Care Home in Clonoe.
The Sister of Mercy was well known across east Tyrone having taught in both the girls’ grammar school and St Patrick’s Primary School in Dungannon.
The girls’ academy amalgamated with St Patrick's Boys’ Academy in 2003.
The school ssid “she is fondly remembered for her compassionate and principled leadership and her care for her pupils and staff”.
Sr Anthony's remains had been in repose at St Patrick’s Church in Dungannon before her funeral yesterday, with burial taking place in the town’s Convent Cemetery.
Auntú councillor Denise Mullen last night paid tribute to her former primary school teacher.
“I have been to Lourdes 11 or 12 times and it was through Lourdes I got to know her,” she said.
“She was such a humble person in the hospital there. She insisted on serving meals and clearing the tables and washing the floor."
Ms Mullen said she was "so nice, a lovely person".
“She was a quiet woman and I was overwhelmed by her way and talking to her,” she said.
“She opened her hear to the sick.”
The councillor also paid tribute to the Sisters of Mercy.
“The nuns in Dungannon were always a good support to so many families,” she said.
“Looking back to primary school, they never lost touch with the community in Dungannon.”
Sinn Féin Mid Ulster MP Francie Molloy also said the former teacher was highly regarded.
“She was very well thought of by the youngsters who went to the school,” he said.
“She was held in very high esteem.”
