Death of noted Irish scholar, Dr. Fiachra MacGabhann

CASTLEBAR College of Further Education (CCFE) will be closed tomorrow (Friday) as a mark of respect to a much loved colleague and teacher, Dr. Fiachra MacGabhann, who has died suddenly.

Dr. MacGabhann, a native of Blackrock, Co. Louth, was a noted Irish scholar. He put huge work into a recent, much acclaimed, publication 'Placenames of Mayo'. As well as a teacher, he was also a noted musician.

He was married to Clodagh Doyle, Curator at the Museum of Country Life. The couple have three children.

Pupils of Dr. MacGabhann, both past and present. have been paying tribute on Facebook to their former teacher and mentor.

They describe him as "talented", "passionate" and "dedicated" with a deep love for Ireland and its culture.

In a tribute on its Facebook page, Gnó Mhaigh Eo stated: "We are heartbroken to hear of the sad news of the passing of our dear friend, Fiachra Mac Gabhann.

"Fiachra was the author of 'Logainmneacha Mhaigh Eo' a ten-volume publication on the Placenames of Mayo - the largest work ever published in the Irish language by one author.

"Fiachra was an absolute gentlemen, a scholar and a gifted musician, who met everyone with kindness in his wonderfully gentle manner. Above all, Fiachra was a devoted family man, and we extend our heartfelt sympathy to his wife, Clodagh, his children, his mother and all his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

His remains will be reposing at Partry Community Centre on Saturday evening from 4.30 until 7 p.m.

Removal from his residence takes place on Sunday to St. Mary's Church, Partry, for Requiem Mass at 1 o'clock followed by burial in Ballyovey Cemetery.