Tributes paid as St Colman’s first lay-principal passes away

Tributes poured in this week following the death of John Hickson, former principal of St Colman’s College in Fermoy in his 78th year.

Mr Hickson, who was the first lay-principal of the school, was described as ‘a true gentleman’, ‘a kind, genuine and calm teacher’ and ‘a lover of the Irish language’.

Holding the position of Principal for five years beginning in 2003, those who knew him said he was ‘ strict but fair’ and said that he was a man of ‘strong faith which contributed to his moral and ethical nature’.

For much of the 1980s, Mr Hickson held the position of vice principal of the school also, and as news of his passing broke late last week, many locals shared their memories of him during his time at St Colman’s College

“John commanded respect, a consummate professional, unassuming, extremely fair and a great listener. Always encouraged and supported younger members of staff. He created a positive work environment for both students and teachers.

“John gave me a start in teaching in St. Colman’s – I will always be grateful to him for that,” a past student and teacher of St Colman’s College said.

Originally from Lispole, Co Kerry, Mr Hickson spent some 40 years at St Colman’s College and became very involved with the school and the community of Fermoy during his time there.

As a student, Mr Hickson studied at St Brendan’s in Killarney before moving to O’Connells in Dublin and UCD to complete his teaching studies and his first teaching job was in De le Salle in Churchtown.

Mr Hickson began teaching locally in 1968 and saw numerous changes while at St Colman’s, the most significant of which was when the school ceased boarding in 2003, with Mr Hickson being appointed principal a year earlier.

He was also an avid GAA fan and saw a number of those who later went on to join the Cork and Limerick panels through the school during his time.

‘LOVED TEACHING’

Speaking with TheAvondhu on his retirement in 2007, Mr Hickson stated that he ‘loved school and loved teaching’ and planned on remaining in Fermoy following his retirement.

“I know it is often the case that once someone retires they move away but I have settled my roots here now.

“I loved school and loved teaching. It has always been in my family going back through the generations and I suppose, that did have a significant influence in my career choice.

“The school has been totally transformed during my time here, it has become totally modern

ised while still retaining all the old qualities. There is a vast range of subjects and certainly a lot more focus on extracurricular activity, which I feel is very important for overall development,” he said at the time.

John will be sadly missed by his daughters Deirdre, Mary, Joan and Katie, sister Rita, extended family, relatives and friends. He was laid to rest in Kilcrumper New Cemetery on Monday following Requiem Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Fermoy. May he rest in peace.