'United in grief' Portlaoise Principal on the tragic death of teacher John Duggan Reporter: 30 Apr 2021 '); '); The Principal of St Mary’s CBS in Portlaoise has paid tribute to her Deputy, John Duggan, who died suddenly last Tuesday, April 27. Maura Murphy said that the boys secondary school is united in grief at their loss, and in sympathy to John’s family. “The entire school community, our staff, pupils, past pupils and management, are united in their grief at this sudden tragic loss of life. “John was a gentleman, that’s the word that keeps coming back for everyone, in all his dealings. The respect he had from his students, you only have to read the messages of condolences to see that, going back all the years.