Retirement of Mary Galvin after 38 years of teaching

Christmas time provided the perfect backdrop for a surprise celebration for Mary Galvin who retired from teaching after a long, committed and distinguished career. While Mary was enjoying the Christmas festivities surrounded by her family, little did she know what else was planned. Her family, together with many friends and colleagues came together to celebrate with Mary her retirement having completed 38 years of distinguished service to the community of Moate. Mary's husband Ambrose, her family Michelle and Eoin, James, Anne and Grace, Maria and John together with many friends and colleagues were all there to share this very special occasion with her on Sunday, December 27th 2009 at her son John's new home. Mary's entire career as a Physical Education teacher was spent in Moate and many generations of young people have benefited from her expertise, sense of purpose, optimism and real care. Her students always came first and her generosity was evident in the time she devoted to her classes and the individuals within them. Mary's love of sport and her passion for her subject was infectious. Suffice it to say that her contribution over time has been enormous. Fortunate are we to have had available the integrity, the insight, and the love which are the measure of her stature. Many tributes were paid to Mary during the course of the evening, by her friends and members of her family and laced with good humour all present were entertained with anecdotal wit, recalling events and occasions over her long career. In thanking her family, friends and colleagues for such a wonderful evening Mary said she was completely overwhelmed by the celebration. She thanked also those who for various reasons could not attend but who had sent her their good wishes. The evening's enjoyment reflected Mary's happy approach to life, which will continue through her retirement, with laughter and joy as the antidote to any of life's little obstacles. As the happy days of retirement roll along we all wish Mary every blessing as she begins the time for doing all the things she has dreamed of doing, but sacrificed for the benefits of others.