Padraig Feehan was born in Newmarket, Co. Cork on April 25th 1941 to John and Nora Feehan. The eldest of 4 children, he enjoyed hurling and football, winning county medals with his local Duhallow team. He remained a loyal fan of GAA through the years supporting his beloved Cork through the highs and lows.
A few years after graduating from UCD and UCC, Padraig accepted a teaching position in Scoil Bhanrion na hEagna, Rathkeale in 1970. He taught English, History, Latin and Religion and was a driving force behind the amalgamation of the two second level schools in Rathkeale. He was later to become principal of Coláiste na Trócaire. Throughout his teaching career, he taught and mentored young people from Rathkeale and the surrounding parishes.
He married Maighread in 1972 and they set up home in Ballingrane in 1977. He immediately became involved in local organisations in Rathkeale and Cappagh, remaining a stalwart of community life throughout the years.
He was very involved in St. James’ Church, as reader, cantor, choir member and later, minister of the Eucharist. Behind the scenes he was on the finance committee, playing a large role in the upkeep of the church and its environs including the new parochial house.
Padraig was an advocate of parish sustainability and passionately embraced the group water scheme model. He was heavily involved in Cappagh Group Water Scheme for many years and was part of the committee that modernised the scheme.
He was a member of the Board of Management of St. James’ Primary School, which afforded him the opportunity to share his educational expertise and philosophy. Here, along with his work as teacher and principal in Rathkeale, he sincerely championed the value of nurturing young people.
His commitment locally was part of a wider involvement in groups and committees at county and national level. To all these he gave his time and knowledge selflessly. He was valued by many as an advisor and after retirement continued in this role, offering support to many individuals and organisations. Padraig died on the 7th of April 2013.
Feehan family
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