After the Bank Holiday we returned to school and ensured that all plans were in place for the funeral at OLI for Tony Ward and for the ‘wake’ to be held at the school after.

The sun was shining on Wednesday and the Mass, readings and eulogies were a fitting send off for him, and hopefully give comfort to his family in the future.

The stories recanted of a young Tony were funny and endearing and there was laughter as well as tears, and we were acutely aware of saying goodbye to someone very special.

As sad as it has been, Tony did not linger, he didn’t have to be cared for by loved ones, suffer indignity and a slow decline, and for that we are thankful.

Now we have to adjust to our ‘new normal’ and continue with his lifetime’s work!