Little Angels pay tribute to inspirational co-founder Dr John Murray

The death was mourned this week of Dr John Murray, a co-founder of the Little Angels Association in Letterkenny.

Over 40 years ago, Dr Murray and his late wife, Phil, brought together a group of parents with the dream of opening a school in Donegal to cater for children with moderate to severe learning difficulties.

The Little Angels Association was born out of this vision.

Previous to this, families had to bid farewell to their precious children and they had to leave the county for their education.

Not satisfied with getting the school open Dr Murray also led the drive to provide accommodation for pupils so that they could come to school during the week and rejoin their families at the weekend.

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Fiona House is still home to some of the first pupils who attended Little Angels.

“It is fair to say that without his drive and determination Little Angels school wouldn't exist,” Little Angels said in a heartfelt tribute.

“Dr Murray promised their parents that they would have a home for life and to this day they live together happily being cared for by a wonderful team under the patronage of the Little Angels Association.

“Dr Murray was passionate about the association and indeed his name is synonymous with Little Angels.

“He worked tirelessly over the years and it could be said that he was a reluctant retiree! He loved the Association and his commitment to it was unwavering but it was not his only love.”

Dr Murray was predeceased by his wife Phil and two daughters, Grainne and Fiona, and is survived by children Roni, Barry, Johnny and Emmet and grandchildren Claire, Karen, Emmet, Orla and Blanaid, great-grandchild Robin, extended family, carers, neighbours and many friends.

Late of Middle Road, Ballyraine, Dr Murray, who was originally from Drogheda, was buried in Conwal Cemetery following Funeral Mass at the Church of the Irish Martyrs on Monday afternoon.

Little Angels said: “He has left behind a significant legacy and he will never be forgotten by those who knew and worked with him in the HSE and in Little Angels.”