Templederry's fond farewell to Gertie

A thanksgiving Mass was held last Friday in Templederry to mark the retirement of Gertie Russell after spending the last 40 years teaching.

Thirty-four of those years were spent in Templederry, the last 18 of which Gertie spent as Principal.

The chief celebrant was Fr Vincent Stapleton, a former teacher with Gertie. She was accompanied by a large circle of family and friends, including her husband Michael, daughter Claire and mother Peg.

Gertie was presented with a once-off piece of sculpture by Paul Butler on behalf of the Board of Management and the community of Templederry. She was also presented with flowers and a token from Joanne Delaney, parents representative.

Two of Gertie's past pupils presented her with a bog oak book from the parish of Templederry. The Mass was followed by a lovely gathering in the Kenyon Centre.