Board of Education (N.I.)05 Jun 20

A tribute to Mrs Helen McClenaghan from the Transferor Representatives’ Council

The Transferor Representatives’ Council (TRC) has paid tribute to Mrs Helen McClenaghan, who died yesterday afternoon (4th June) following a lifetime of service.

The Chair of the TRC, Miss Rosemary Rainey OBE, remarked: ‘I have known Helen McClenaghan for many years as a person of integrity, faith and professionalism. She was a highly respected educationalist who had shown wise leadership, especially during her time as Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Education and Library Board.

‘Her knowledge, experience and insight, her resilience, her sterling service and contribution to the field of education and her concern for people were legendary. She was never too busy to make time for people and their problems, as a mentor inspiring and influencing many during her lifetime both within education and the women’s sector. She will be greatly missed by all who knew, admired and worked with her.

‘Although only a recent appointment to the TRC, she, as always, made a huge contribution to discussion, debate and decision–making. We regret her passing and extend our deepest sympathy on their loss to her husband Stephen, daughter Frances, and the whole family circle, while assuring them of our prayerful support at this time.

‘We thank God for Helen’s life of service, her dedication and commitment, her wise counsel and her genuine sincere friendship. She is now at peace and “with Christ, which is far better,” (Philippians 1:23) and in that we rejoice.’

The Transferor Representatives’ Council represents the educational interests, in Northern Ireland, of the Church of Ireland, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and the Methodist Church in Ireland.