Family of schoolteacher remember their mother as 'true lady' after her unexpected passing over Christmas

TRIBUTES are flooding in as a Limerick community mourns the unexpected passing of a woman known for her unwavering dedication to education and the warmth she extended to all.

Elma Power (née Howard), of Riverside, Kilfinane, Co Limerick and formerly of Ballindangan, Mitchelstown, Co Cork, passed unexpectedly but peacefully on St Stephen's Day.

Her daughter Grace, who spoke to Limerick Live, remembers her inspirational mother with love and admiration. "As our mum, she made our house a home," said the 34-year-old. "The little kind and thoughtful things that she used to do for us, we are going to miss them".

Looking back on her engagement abroad, Grace said: "My mum really was there for everything. When I got off the plane, she was standing there with flowers and balloons waiting to celebrate with us." 

Having studied to teach home economics and religion at St Angela's College in Sligo, Elma went on to teach the subjects at Scoil Pól in Kilfinane.

The 66-year-old left an indelible mark on the lives of her students and colleagues at the secondary school. "That school was so important to her," stated her daughter, as she recounted how her late mother spent her entire career there.

"She was the type of person to believe in people".

A testament to her teaching prowess lies in the memories of those fortunate enough to have been in her classes. A tribute posted to social media by a community member of Kilfinane said: "She truly was the teacher you would remember, the one you wanted to do well for and whose words of encouragement and advice stayed with you long after you had left school."

Having retired a year-and-a-half ago, many of her students fondly remember her as more than just an educator, above all, she was a friend and mentor. Her impact extended beyond the classroom, particularly during her years as the LCA coordinator, where she guided and influenced countless students.

Taking to social media, one former student wrote: "This is so incredibly sad. When I re-sat my leaving in 2013, Elma or Mrs Power, was really such a rock to me and guided me through so much while I studied from home with two small children.

"She was such a lovely woman and fantastic teacher and mentor. My heart goes out to her daughters, Louisa and Grace and of course to Denis".

Another friend wrote: "Deepest sympathy Denis and girls. Absolute lady. Inspired me to become the teacher I am. Was always my idol in Scoil Pol. Amazing teacher".

Having read the mountain of tributes and condolences flooding in for Elma, Grace, added that she and her entire family have been overwhelmed by the support they have received on social media following: "When I saw the comments, I wished she could have seen them too".

Elma is predeceased by her parents, Tom and Peg. Beloved wife of Denis, loving mother of Louisa and Grace, and dear eldest sister of Jim, Ryan and Vincent.

She is sadly missed and deeply regretted by her loving family, son-in-law Fernando, Louisa’s partner Daniel, sisters-in-law Karin, Úna and Sheila, aunt, uncle, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and many cherished friends and former colleagues in Scoil Pól, Kilfinane.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced and the family has requested privacy during this time.

In lieu of flowers, they ask that contributions be made to Cliona’s Foundation.