Heartbreak at death of young Laois teacher

HEARTBROKEN tributes have been paid to a popular Laois secondary school teacher, who passed away yesterday aged only 28.

Liam Hogan from Ballybrittas was an exceptional teacher and mentor at Coláiste Íosagáin in Portarlington, where he did his own Leaving Certificate only 10 years ago. He returned to the school to complete his teacher training before joining the staff in 2023.

The school will remain closed on Friday, the day of Liam’s funeral, as a mark of respect. Staff gathered at the school this morning for a prayer service to remember a remarkable person, colleague and friend, who will be deeply mourned and missed.

A book of condolence will open at Coláiste Íosagáin this Thursday, for any students or parents who wish to sign.

Despite a devastating cancer diagnosis, Liam continued to play an active role in school life and remained a committed and passionate teacher over the past few years, as he continued a courageous battle against serious illness. As recently as last April, he fulfilled a commitment to travel to Barcelona with the school’s Transition Year students, who will always remember his kindness and encouragement.

On behalf of everyone at the school, principal Justin Brown said: ‘The word special can be overused on these occasions but Liam was a special person. It was a privilege to have him as part of our school community - as a student and member of staff. We think especially of his Mam, Dad, brother, sister and his grandparents at this difficult time.’ 

A past pupil of Rath NS and Coláiste Íosagáin, Liam attended NUI Maynooth and was officially appointed to the staff in 2023 as an English and History teacher, while also coaching school football teams. He was due to become a permanent member of the teaching staff on 1 September, when he would have received his contract of indefinite duration (CID).

Describing Liam as a colleague, friend and team mentor, Mr Brown said on the school’s social media page: ‘As a past-pupil and a member of our teaching staff, we can count ourselves lucky to have encountered such a kind, dedicated, passionate person in our working and teaching lives.

‘As a staff member, Liam coached school football teams. What stood out most about him was that each student enjoyed the sessions and turned up again and again. He wanted students to feel good about themselves.

‘In a world where winning is so important, Liam always thought about his players rather than the result. He was so selfless with his time and, indeed, spent time on sidelines throughout Laois and Offaly supporting our students playing for club and county.

‘Liam was often spotted throughout the school having a quiet encouraging word with students about how well they were playing or where they can improve.

‘He organised the fiercely competitive senior soccer league every year, a highlight for many students’ last few months in school.’ 

Recalling the young teacher’s time as a pupil at Coláiste Iosagáin, Mr Brown said: ‘As a student, Liam wore the school jersey with pride and won back to back South Leinster Titles.

‘When he was in 6th year, he was the team coach/player in the senior soccer league. Indeed, a lot more time was put into team tactics and team selection than actual preparation for his Leaving Cert exams!

‘He could be seen on the sideline roaring on his peers, making vital changes and questioning referees decisions! His team were the champions and Liam was raised up high on their shoulders and paraded around the pitch.

‘He spent many hours in the staff room discussing his beloved Arsenal, and his wishes came through when they lifted the premiership trophy.

‘We have lost a true gentleman and a loyal friend. Our sincere condolences to his parents, siblings and grandparents. May his gentle soul rest in peace.’ 

Liam passed away peacefully, in the company of his loving family, at St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin on Tuesday, 25 August. He was predeceased by his grandfather and namesake Liam Hogan and by his brother Darren.

His death notice on RIP.ie states: ‘Greatly missed by his heartbroken parents Michael and Mary, his brother Brian and sister Rebecca, grandparents Christy and Kathleen O'Connor, his grandmother Josephine Hogan, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, colleagues, neighbours and a large circle of friends.

‘Liam will reposing at his residence (R32 W296) this Wednesday and Thursday from 4pm, concluding with rosary at 8pm on both days.

‘Removal by Whelehan Funeral Directors on Friday at 11.15am, to arrive at the Sacred Heart Church Rath (R32 FN44) for 12 noon Requiem Mass. Interment to follow in the New Cemetery, Emo.

‘House private on Friday morning, please. Donations to St Vincent's Hospital, Dublin.

‘The Hogan family would like to thank you for your support and understanding during this sensitive and sad time.

‘Sympathisers can extend their sympathies on the online condolence facilities on RIP.ie.’