Tributes to former Mayo college principal on his passing

The death has taken place of Very Reverend Canon Martin Newell, Curracuggeen, Headford, Co. Galway.

He died peacefully at University Hospital Galway surrounded by his family.

The deceased served a principal of St. Colman's College, Claremorris, from 1981 to 1989.

Prior to his appointment as principal, he was a member of the teaching staff for many years.

On behalf of the college, Roy Hession, the current principal of the school, has extended sympathy to the Newell family on their loss.

"He was a regular visitor to St. Colman's in recent years and was always interested in the further development of the school.

"He continued to have an abiding passion for sport, especially Colleges' football and he always maintained a keen interest in how St Colman's teams were doing in league and championship. Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam," stated Mr. Hession.

Many other tributes have been paid to the deceased on the condolences page of the death notices website, RIP.ie.

Seamus Commins wrote: "He was an excellent trainer and mentor of GAA teams.

"He was instrumental, together with the late Tony Geraghty RIP, in delivering the Hogan Cup success to St. Colman's College in 1977. A year where all involved will never forget. Rest in peace Canon Martin."

A tribute by the Franciscan Brothers, Corrandulla, Co. Galway, stated: "What an outstanding pastor; beloved of young and old alike.

"May he rest in the eternal peace of his good Lord and Saviour whom he served faithfully throughout his life."

The board of management of Castlehackett National School said: "He was a great leader in our community for many years. A wonderful asset to our area when building our new school."

The deceased was a former president and a great supporter of Annaghdown Golf Society, he was instrumental in introducing many of his parishioners to the game of golf.

Predeceased by his parents Thomas and Nora, brothers Fr. Charles (Hubie), Jack, Redmond and Tom, sisters Mary Finnegan, Sr. Kathleen, Teresa Burke and Sr. Nuala, and his beloved nieces Trish, Barbara and Sheila, and his nephew Martin, he is deeply regretted by his nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, parishioners, neighbours and friends, Archbishop Francis Duffy, retired Archbishop Michael Neary and his brother priests and religious, to whom sympathy is tendered.

Reposing at Corrandulla Mortuary Chapel today (Friday) from 3 p.m. with removal at 6 p.m. to the adjoining church.

Requiem Mass takes place on Saturday at 11 a.m. in St. Brendan's Church, Corrandulla. Burial takes afterwards in the Church grounds.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.