The recent untimely death in the Graan Nursing Home of Mary McGovern after a lengthy illness, caused widespread shock and genuine sorrow.
Mary was a devoted, loyal and loving wife to her husband, Francie, whom she married in 1974. Francie was her constant companion at GAA venues all over the country.
She was a dedicated teacher who regarded her chosen profession, not as work, but as a vocation, instilling in her pupils a love and respect for all things Irish.
A modest, shy lady, Mary was highly intelligent and had an exceptional ability for recalling past events, recalling the lines of the poem, The Village Schoolmaster, "Still they gazed and still the wonder grew, that one small head could carry all he knew".
Her devotion to her pupils extended beyond the school day. She never allowed the fact that she was a teacher to distance herself from her neighbours or wider community. Indeed many adults recall the customary birthday card and present both lovingly and carefully chosen.
Mary began her teaching career in Lattoon PS in 1974, moving in 1976 to take up a shared post between St. Martin's, Garrison and St. Columban's, Belcoo. She remained in that position until being offered a full-time post in Belcoo in 1988. In these schools she forged strong friendships with all the staff, especially the Principals.
She had a very deep faith and her practice of this was an example to all who knew her.
She was a life-long Pioneer and helped form a Unit of the Catholic Boy Scouts and served as a leader.
Her greatest love of all, however, was the GAA. Mary's contribution to the promotion of Gaelic games and culture is legendary. She became involved in Cumann na mBunscol (Primary Schools' GAA) in 1980 and was a natural choice as Secretary - a post that she filled with distinction in Fermanagh from 1980 until 2005. She initiated a Quiz for Fermanagh schools and this was so successful that Cumann na mBunscol Uladh decided to make this an annual event for all the schools in Ulster. It was her desire to see all children involved in the GAA.
When Cumann na mBunscol organised a provincial committee in 1990, Mary was chosen as Secretary and retained that post until 2002 when she became Treasurer and remained in that position until forced to retire due to ill health in 2007. Such was the regard that her colleagues had for her that she was then elected the first Honorary President of the committee.
Her tireless work for the Association and her undoubted ability was recognised by the National Committee in 2007 when she received the Pat Trainor award which is annually presented to a member who has given 'outstanding service' to the Association.
Despite much acclaim from her many friends within teaching and the GAA.., Mary remained a shy, modest and sincere lady who treated everyone with respect and understanding.
Her life was one of acceptance of the Will of God and her funeral liturgy so fittingly and thoughtfully conducted by Fr. Stephen Joyce followed Mary's specific wishes. It was a meaningful and moving tribute to a very special person.
