Tributes paid to former Boher National School principal

Tributes have been paid to the former principal of Boher National School, Len Casey, who passed peacefully, in the loving care of his family and the staff at Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore, on Wednesday.

Fondly known as "Master Casey", the tributes were led by his son, singer and musician, Simon, who described his late father as the "greatest inspiration" who is "now reunited with my beautiful mam".

Ballycumber GAA said it was of "great sadness" to hear of Len's passing, highlighting the role he played in the local community since the 1960s.

"On moving to Boher in the early 1960’s, Len spent the remainder of his career as principal of our local school.

"In addition to his role as teacher, Len was involved in our community and in our club at many levels, playing football for Ballycumber and serving on club and community centre committees in a range of positions.

"Len instilled a love of gaelic football and sport into so many pupils who attended Boher NS over the years. Before coaching qualifications became the norm, Len was developing players’ skills in his own very practical ways.

"He played a huge part in shaping so many teams at all age-groups, that represented the club over the decades. Of course, his loyal support of his beloved Dubs stoked many a lively conversation over the years, and he was always happy to engage.

"He will be fondly remembered and missed around Ballycumber and the GAA club".

Singer Mickey Joe Harte also extended his sympathies to the Casey family on the passing of Len.

"I have many lovely memories of Len during all our times spent in the Helix Dublin on ‘You’re A Star’ duties.

"I will also always treasure the fact he took time to acknowledge myself and Simon’s journey together in his ‘father of the groom’ speech on Simon and Denise’s big day, and made us feel so welcome.

"He was always a gentleman, courteous, respectful and jovial. I know he will be missed immeasurably by all," the singer said.

Len was predeceased by his beloved wife Teresa, parents Joe and Mary and brother Vince.

He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by his loving family, Suzanne, Leonard, Terence, Simon and Conrad, brother George, sisters Ruth, Caroline and Vilma, grandchildren, Harry, Lucy, Susie, Joe, James, Charlie, Thomas, Grace, Mella, John, Conn, and Tadhg, son-in-law Robbie, daughters-in-law, Kay, Stephanie, Denise and Méabh, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and great friends.

Len will repose at The Granary (R35 NX30) adjacant to St. Manchan's Church, Boher on Friday, June 26, from 6pm to 9pm.

Removal will take place on Saturday, June 27, to St. Manchan's Church, Boher, where his Requiem Mass will be celebrated at 2pm.

Len will be laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.