THE COMMUNITY of Sullivan Upper School, Holywood, has been saddened to learn of the recent death of former headmaster, John Young.
Mr Young was head of the school from 1980 to 1988, and taught at the school for 18 years.
A tribute on the Sullivan Connect website referred to Mr Young’s legacy continuing to ‘live on in the memories of pupils, staff, and alumni whose lives he quietly but powerfully shaped’.
He was described as ‘not the stereotypical ‘iron master’ often expected of school leaders of his era’, but ‘instead, he brought a calm, thoughtful presence to the role – one marked by humility, wit, and above all, genuine care for every pupil who walked the school’s corridors’. He will be greatly missed and the whole Sullivan community extends its deepest sympathy to his wife Margaret, his children Patrick and Sarah and his whole family circle
The website contained a tribute from current Sullivan Upper principal, Craig Mairs, who commented: “For those who attended the school between 1980-1998 there is one constant in their memories; the respect, admiration and affection they had for John Young. He was clearly a leader with great compassion, integrity and wisdom. Above all he represented the school’s motto Lamh foisdineach an uachtar [with gentle hand foremost].”
North Down MLA Andrew Muir also paid tribute to Mr Young: “I was fortunate to know John for many years and always admired the compassion, dedication and tenacity he demonstrated in everything he did. John was highly respected by so many throughout Holywood and beyond giving dedicated service over many years as Headmaster of Sullivan Upper School plus to Holywood Music Festival, Camphill Community Glencraig and Northern Community Leisure Trust.”
Mr Young is survived by his wife Margaret, son Patrick, and daughter Sarah.
