Michael (Mike) Phillip Brady (SPC 1956-62 and former staff)

The St Patrick’s College community mourns the passing of one of our most loved and respected Old Collegians and teachers, Michael (Mike) Phillip Brady (SPC 1956-62).

Mike passed away on 24 July, 2022 surrounded in the care and comfort of his wife, Robyn and his three daughters, Yemimah, Emily and Zarah and their families.

A Requiem Mass was held for Mike yesterday (4 August) at the St Patrick’s College’s Chapel, in the loving embrace of the SPC community.

Following the service, Year 12 students performed a stirring rendition of the College’s War Cry, in a fitting gesture which Mike taught himself to thousands of incoming Year 7 students during his teaching days, and students and staff then lined the front garden path in an emotional guard of honour as Mike left SPC for the final time.

Mike was a much-loved member of the St Patrick’s community; a former student, a former Christian Brother and then as a long-serving member of staff for nearly 40 years.

Through his work as a teacher and the Year 7 Coordinator over many years, Mike got to know so many students and their families and the tributes which have poured in since the weekend are a clear indication of how much people loved Mr Brady as a teacher, year coordinator, colleague and importantly, as a friend.

Mike had a tremendous sense of humour and gentle nature; he remained entirely optimistic about the work that he did as a teacher as he guided, encouraged, challenged and supported so many students across so many years.

Former students have spoken candidly of the huge legacy and impact Mike had on their lives, with many sharing similar sentiments to this message from this Old Collegian –  “I have no doubt that you have played an important role in the success I have enjoyed since my school days”.

Current and past staff as well as former students shared emotional tributes on the College’s OCA Facebook page as well as in Mike’s final months, read here

Mike’s great legacy of a life well lived and served was also highlighted in news stories in the media here and here

Mike was awarded the College’s prestigious Facere et Docere award in 2013 in honour of his outstanding service to the College, a year before retiring after teaching for close on four decades at St Patrick’s College.

He was also a student from 1956-62 and loved his time at SPC. He was a member of the U14 XVIII Football team and a member of the Galvin House premiership team in the Senior Shed competition in 1959, among many other things.

As a youngster, Mike was also a member of the Nunan House premiership team in the St Roch’s competition and he was also a cadet.

During his time teaching at SPC, Mike was also a driving force on the SPC Old Collegians’ Association committee, and committee secretary for eight years.

He continued to be a loyal supporter of SPC, as a regular attendee of College and OCA events, and a friendly face on each and every occasion.

Rest in peace dear Mike.