RIP: tributes paid to 'beloved colleague and friend' of Kildare school
Ms. Shirley Doyle, teacher at Athy College, passed on November 1 2026
The community of Athy is mourning the recent passing of “beloved colleague and friend”, Shirley Doyle, who taught at Athy College.
Shirley, of Rochfort Manor, Graiguecullen, Carlow and formerly of Rahin Rd., Ballylinan, Co Laois, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on November 1 2026, under the wonderful and compassionate care of the nurses and staff at Vincent’s Private Hospital, Dublin.
Beloved partner of Keith, much loved daughter of William and Eileen, cherished sister of Kevin, Darrell and Rachel and adored aunt of Tiernan, Rónán, Hailey and Madison.
She will be sadly missed by her loving partner, parents, brothers, sister, brothers-in-law Paudge and Robert, sisters-in-law Sharon, Lynn, Deirdre and Mairead, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, relatives and friends.
May Shirley’s Gentle Soul Rest In Peace
A social media post by Athy College stated: “Some lights burn so softly and brightly that when they leave us, the world feels noticeably dimmer. Today, our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to our beloved colleague and friend, Shirley Doyle. There are some people who teach us lessons from a textbook, and then there are those who teach us by example, showing us how to walk through the world with grace, patience, and love. Shirley Doyle was the latter.
“Our college family is grieving as we mourn the passing of a truly extraordinary woman. As a teacher of English and Geography, and as our ASD Coordinator, Shirley did far more than guide students through their studies—she created a sanctuary for every child who needed extra care, a listening ear, or a gentle push of confidence.
“Shirley was elegance and gentleness personified. Her infinite patience calmed our hardest days, her kindness healed quietly behind the scenes, and her sharp, beautiful sense of humour lit up every room she entered. She gave so much of herself to our students, staff, and parents, leaving an indelible mark on thousands of lives.”
Shirley will repose at Carpenter Bros Funeral Home, Shamrock Sq, Carlow (Eircode R93 C863) on Wednesday November 4 from 3pm until 8pm that evening.
The Cremation Service will take place on Thursday morning at 11am in Carpenter Bros Cremation Chapel, Shamrock Sq, Carlow.
Family Flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to Éist, Cancer Support Services.
Donate Online Here: https://www.idonate.ie/cause/eistcarlow
Webstream
Tributes paid to Shirley on RIP.ie include the following: “Rest in peace Ms. Doyle.Condolences to your family, friends, colleagues. You were an absolute inspiration & sweetheart. Lots of love.”And: “Condolences to the Doyle family at this sad time, Shirley was a true lady with kindness and a heart of gold. Her smile that would light up a room when she entered. Rest in Peace Shirley you will be sadly missed.”
While another mourner wrote: “So very sorry to hear of Shirley passing. Heartfelt condolences to her Partner, Kevin, Sharon and all of her family. A lovely gentle lady. May her beautiful gentle soul rest in eternal peace.”
And another added: “Sincere condolences to The Doyle family and friends on the passing of Shirley .. she was an exceptional teacher and a wonderful lady. May she rest easy, RIP Ms Doyle.”