Tributes have been paid on the death of David T Morris, an ‘unforgettable character, a gentleman and a warm-hearted’ school teacher who influenced generations of students in County Tipperary.
Mr Morris, of ‘Attavallie’, Carrigeen, Cashel, Tipperary, and formerly of the South Circular Road, Dublin, died unexpectedly at home on Sunday, August 25.
A teacher in the Ursuline secondary school in Thurles and Rockwell College, Cashel, David Thomas was the son of the late Thomas and Nora and brother of the late Brian, Paul, Declan, Thomas and Brenda.
He is mourned by his wife Rose, daughter Paula, son Rónán, grandchildren Caoimhinn and Rupert, son-in-law Philip and Rónán’s partner Dom, brother-in-law Mark, sisters-in-law Sidsel and Lola, nephews, niece, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Mr Morris will lie in repose at Devitt’s Funeral Home on Friday evening, August 8, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Requiem mass is on Saturday, August 31, in the Church of Our Lady Queen, New Inn at 11.30am.
Condolences and sympathies have been paid from far and wide, from former students, friends, and neighbours.
The management and staff of the Ursuline secondary school, Thurles, paid tribute, saying: “David was a highly regarded, beloved member of the teaching staff of the Ursuline.”
“Kind, friendly, supportive of colleagues, in particular those at the beginning of their careers. He had lots of stories and life advice that was always warmly given and received. An integral and innovative member of staff, he coached Concern Debating teams with phenomenal success over the course of his very long teaching career.
“The 2024 team and their current mentor were delighted to meet him at the All-Ireland quarter-final in Horse and Jockey only a few months ago, where he had come along to cheer them on. A testament to his interest and enthusiasm for the school well into his retirement.
“David is remembered also for his keen sense of fun around the school, especially during the Christmas activities and Ursuline X-Factor when he gladly threw himself into the shenanigans and festive fun. As well as being a valued member of the Business Dept., he established the school’s first Computer Room and taught the subject with gusto, always showing the students’ new technological tricks, well ahead of the time.
“His daily pondering over The Times Cryptic crossword at break and lunch times with his closest friends is still fondly remembered by those who knew him. David was an unforgettable character, a gentleman and a warm-hearted person. His sudden passing is very sad for those who had the great privilege to know him. Condolences to Rose, Paula and Ronán on the loss of a beloved husband and father.”
Other tributes have been posted on RIP.ie since his death.
“I am very saddened to hear this news,” said one lady. “Forever known to me as Mr Morris, he was a patient, kind, astute and wonderful mentor to me during my time on the Concern debating team in the Ursuline.
“He gave of his time freely and without hesitation, transporting the team throughout the country to each round of the competition with such positivity, determination and always with a sprinkling of his infamous eccentricity and wit.
“To Rose, Paula, Rónán and all who loved Dave, I wish to convey my genuine sympathy. Whilst your loss is immeasurable, please take comfort in the legacy Mr Morris has left behind.”
One mourner wrote: “My deepest condolences on the passing of David - a man who made a lasting and wonderful impression on my career and life.
“Only earlier this week and before I heard your sad news, I was telling my son about the most wonderful teacher that I ever had. I told my son that that teacher's name was Mr Morris and that he was inspirational, insightful and, most importantly, lots of fun.
“Mr. Morris could impart knowledge in a way that nobody else could and he loved doing it. I admired him so much and have often thought so fondly of my years at UCT under his guidance, not just as my business studies teacher, but also as the man who made possible our success in the 1995 Concern Debating All-Ireland Final.
“He and I had connected recently again to talk about all things debating and I was so happy to let him know that he had inspired another generation of debaters.
“I know that you must all be experiencing the most dreadful loss at the moment, but know that David was an inspiration and a gentleman and that he made such a difference to those who had the privilege to encounter him. May David's gentle soul rest in peace.”
Another friend of the family said: “Sincere sympathy to Rose and all the Morris family on the sudden death of Dave. I am sure he will be sadly missed by all.
“Dave was an inspirational teacher who thought me Economics for my Leaving Cert in Rockwell in 1976. I have never forgotten his huge interest in his subject and his students. We had no doubt he did everything to get us the best possible outcome. He left a lasting impression on my later education and working career.
“Some years later he also thought my daughter Jane at the Ursuline Convent in Thurles and she also has very fond memories of Dave and found him a lovely man and great teacher.”
Cllr Siobhán Ambrose said, “we were all very shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Dave's sudden passing. Dave was one of life's gentlemen who had a wonderful sense of humour and was always available to give advice or help out whenever it was needed.
“He was also a lifelong stalwart member of Fianna Fáil and his passing is a huge loss to the party. Dave was a great friend to all of us who had the good fortunate to meet him and we will all miss him dearly. Thinking of all you Rose, Paula, Rónán and family at this very sad time.”
