A beloved English teacher at Yeats College in Galway city, Ms Allen has been remembered as an “inspiration” by her former students, with others paying tribute to her involvement in helping to organise the Galway Film Fleadh.
Paula Allen of Tuairin, Bealadangan, Galway passed away peacefully on September 20 surrounded by her loving family at University Hospital Galway.
She will be missed by her daughter Emma, grandchildren Dylan and Abbie, sisters Laurie, Miriam and Norma and bothers Raymond, David and Jonathan, as well as her extended family and friends and colleagues at Galway Film Fleadh and Yeats College.
The school, based on College Road, Galway city, shared the news of her passing with “immense sadness and disbelief”, remembering the former teacher as the “heart of Yeats College” and a “loyal friend” who shared a wisdom, and kindness to all who knew her.
“Paula was a gifted teacher. She weaved her magic in the classroom daily. Paula’s students truly loved and deeply appreciated all the extraordinary lengths she made to help them.
“She touched the lives of countless students and colleagues with her passion, kindness, and unwavering support. Paula’s passing is a profound loss for our entire school community.
“To Paula, we will always remember you with love and gratitude, and your spirit will always remain a part of our school community. Suaimhneas síoraí dá hanam dílis. Codladh sámh Paula.”
A condolence left on Ms Allen’s death notice by her former students says she was an amazing woman, teacher and above all, friend.
“Her joy brought many classes to life, whether it being the dreaded poetry or acting out the battle scenes in Macbeth, Paula always made every class memorable and exciting.
“On a deeper level Paula really cared and put a lot of effort into us as students, she was an amazing adult to have in the presence of children, an inspiration.
“She would always make time for you, whether it was in class or just in the hallway with a question, she would always take the time and made sure you learnt it.
“There’s no shadow of a doubt she was an amazing teacher but what drew her apart from other teachers in other schools was her commitment and how much she cared for each student individually. She was an amazing woman, and she will be heavenly missed.”
Another student said: “Paula was one of the most powerful and truly kind people I have ever met. She showed me my full potential and has undoubtedly left her mark.”
Ms Allen was also remembered for her involvement in helping with the organisation of the Galway Film Fleadh, with a former colleague at the festival adding: “All the years we were on the phone with the Film Fleadh, if there was one person that could organise things it was you.”
Ms Allen will repose at lonad, adjacent to Lettermore Church from 5pm until 7pm on Wednesday, September 24.
A celebration Mass of Paula’s life will take place on Thursday, September 25 at 11am at Lettermore Church, followed by cremation at Shannon Crematorium.