Farewell to former head of St Peter’s RC Primary, Lytham

Born in Dalkey near Dublin, he arrived in England in 1965 and earned a BEd degree in Theology and Sociology from Christ College, Liverpool, a BA (Hons) in Educational Research from Chorley College and an MA in Education from Lancaster University.

He began his teaching career at Maria Goretti School in Accrington in 1969 before going on to the position of deputy head at St Oswald’s Primary School, also in Accrington in 1974 and finally coming to Lytham as head of St Peter’s in 1981.

In 1988, he also held dual headship with Our Lady Star of The Sea Primary School in St Annes for one term.

Following his retirement from school life in 1997, he became an Ofsted inspector of schools and headteachers, advising schools and educational professionals across the country.

Latterly, he ran the Continuing Professional Development programme for Blackpool and Fylde District Law Society and for many years up to August last year, he also organised the annual Sub Sahara Judges Conference in Dublin in collaboration with Professor William Binchy of Trinity College Dublin.

He leaves behind wife, Margaret, their children Alexandra, Peter and Anna, sons-in-law Andrew and Tony, grandchildren Niamh, Finn and Isobel, his brothers Gerard, Desmond and Edward, sister, Elizabeth and their families in Ireland.

Daughter Alexandra said her dad was soft-spoken and kind, a man of great warmth, charm, intellect and wit.

“He was an accomplished poet, skilled orator and incisive leader who excelled at bringing people together to make things happen,” she said.

“He was a great energiser of our community and his dynamism will be sorely missed.

“An incredibly compassionate man, he believed in helping those who needed help the most and in the power of kindness above all else.

“In the years leading up to his death, he took great pleasure in gardening and in his writing.

“A true raconteur, he cherished time with friends and family most of all - a coffee in the town, a pint in the pub and rugby on a Saturday.

“He always had time for everyone and was a friend to many. He was a gentleman and a gentle man.”

Mr O’Toole is being buried tomorrow (April 3) at Saltcotes Cemetery in Lytham in a private ceremony in accordance with lockdown rules.

Donations in his memory can be made to the Shelter charity via Lytham Funeral Services (tel. 01253 733909)