HIGHLANDS College has joined those paying tribute to a ‘treasured wife, mother and grandmother’ who died following the Pier Road explosion.
Principal Jo Terry-Marchant said the Highlands community was sending its ‘heartfelt condolences’ to the family and friends of Kathy McGinness (73), who had spent many years working at the college.
Ms McGinness lived in one of the adjacent buildings to the Haut du Mont block of flats which collapsed following the blast on 10 December. She had been in hospital since the explosion and died on Christmas Day.
Peter Bowler (72), Raymond (Raymie) Brown (71), Romeu and Louise De Almeida (67 and 64), Derek and Sylvia Ellis (61 and 73), Ken and Jane Ralph (72 and 71) and Billy Marsden (63) were also killed. An investigation into the cause of the blast remains ongoing.
In a statement, the college said: ‘Kath worked across several areas of Highlands College over many years, and latterly for professional development and as PA to Dr Jones.
‘All who knew her will remember a kind and caring person; professional, perceptive, and understanding of others’ needs.
‘Most of all, she was a treasured wife, mother, and grandmother.’
Ms Terry-Marchant added: ‘I gained a lot personally from Kath’s support and guidance, she had a wealth of knowledge and expertise and treated everyone with the upmost respect and kindness.
‘We send our heartfelt condolences from the Highlands community to Kath’s family, grandchildren and friends.’
Sandra Goldhawk, a friend of Ms McGinness, said they had met around 50 years ago.
‘I cannot believe that she is gone. We would bump into each other every two-or-three weeks,’ she said.
‘She was the kindest, softest, gentlest [person], she always had a smile on her face. Her kids were her life.’
Meanwhile, Islanders have been paying tribute to Ms McGinness on social media.
In a Facebook comment, Christine O’Haire said: ‘We were best friends for over 50 years – love you Kathy.’
Another Islander, Jo Alm, wrote: ‘RIP Kathy, a lovely lady and former colleague, so sad to hear this. Condolences to her family.’
