A TEACHER who touched the lives of many over the past 24 years in Tralee said her goodbyes to staff and pupils of Holy Family NS on Thursday.

Marian Costello — who had previously taught in Abbeyleix, Co Laois, Bruff in Limerick and Ballyduff — has taught in every class over the past quarter of a century and the emotions among staff at her farewell party showed how highly she is thought of.

The Lisselton native, now living in Tralee, spoke fondly of her time at the school.

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“I’ve had 24 of the best years of my life here. The principals I’ve had — John O’Connor and Ed O’Brien — were fantastic. You could not meet more of a gentleman than Ed. And the staff? We really are one big family. They’re all just marvellous,” she said.

Any plans for retirement?

“Take it one day at a time. I’ll turn off the alarm clock now. All my mornings will be Saturday mornings and all my nights will be Friday nights,” said Marian.

Principal of Holy Family, Ed O’Brien, spoke of how much Marian will be missed.

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“I came here in 2009 and in my time she has been such an obliging, friendly, cheery person. She would see things ahead of me and I could always approach her about anything. She’s a lovely person, very young at heart and hugely helpful to all the younger teachers. I wish her well. She’s young, energetic and healthy so she can make the best of her time in retirement,” said Ed.