SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood MP has paid tribute to Carita Kerr.
Mrs Kerr, wife of former SDLP Mayor of Derry John Kerr, passed away at the weekend.
Foyle MP Mr Eastwood said:
“Carita Kerr was well known throughout our city and her native Donegal where she immersed herself in a wide variety of projects, particularly those involving the arts.
“Alongside her long career as a special educational needs teacher, she was also heavily involved in the Derry Feis throughout her life and was a regular face to people of all ages who attended and took part.
“I came to know Carita well after joining the SDLP and as a young member she always had a kind and encouraging word.
“After entering politics myself she retained a keen interest in the party and my career and she was someone I always looked forward to seeing at party events.
“Her dedication to the party and her community were an inspiration to many.
“With her late husband John, Carita took centre stage during the extraordinary visit of President Clinton and First Lady Hilary Clinton to Derry in November 1995.
“As Mayor and Mayoress they welcomed the Clintons to our city at a fragile time for our peace process and it’s a visit that’s still talked about today.
“I know that both were very proud to have played such a key role in an important moment in the history of our city.
“Carita will be missed by the entire SDLP family and all of those whose lives she touched, from the children she worked with to the drama students and others she mentored.
“Our thoughts are with Carita and John’s children James, Marie Louise and Robert, and the entire Kerr family circle at this sad time.”
A family notice reads: “Carita Kerr (nee Boyle) 28th September 2024 suddenly at Altnagelvin hospital.
“Beloved wife of the late John Kerr (formally of Clarendon Street).
“Loving mother of James, Marie Louise and Robert. Much loved grandmother of Catherine, Rebecca, Evie-Jane, Charlie and Tom. Mother in law of Vivienne.
“A much loved Aunt to all her nephews and nieces.
“Funeral from her home at 10 Parklands, Limavady Road, on Wednesday at 9.15am to St Eugene’s Cathedral for Requiem mass at 10am. Interment afterwards in the city cemetery.
“Funeral mass can be viewed on the following link: http://www.steugenescathedral.com/webcam.html
“Family time please from 10pm until 11am.
“Family flowers only, if wished donations in lieu of flowers to Ardnashee School and College.
“Deeply regretted and will be sadly missed by all her family and everyone that knew her.
“Sacred heart of jesus have mercy on her soul.
“Our Lady of Knock pray for her.”
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