Board of Education (NI)31 Jul 25

Transferors pay tribute to John Wilkinson

It was with deep sorrow that the Executive Committee of the Transferor Representatives’ Council (TRC) learned of the sudden passing of John Wilkinson, one of its members. John joined the TRC Executive in 2018 and his experience, wisdom and clarity brought much to the work of the organisation and the promotion of faith in education.

John brought with him over 40 years of experience in the field of education, during which he excelled as a teacher, principal, governor and consultant. His passion for educating young people and his passion for his Saviour were brought together in many of his roles, not least as a member of TRC, on which he represented the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, and then on the Board of the Education Authority as a voice for the denomination.

He was a man of great integrity, with an incisive mind and wonderful sense of humour. He was diplomatic and respectful, yet passionate in his pursuit of an effective education system and eager to put his experience to good use in dealing with areas which he saw as needing addressing.

The TRC’s Chair, Dr Andy Brown said: “It was a privilege to know and work with John in the area of faith in education, which was such a passion of his. We are deeply shocked and saddened at his loss and offer our sympathies to his wife Hazel, their children Jonathan and Joanna, and the wider family circle at this distressing time, and wish to assure them that they are very much in our thoughts and prayers.

“John has left an incalculable legacy in the work that he has done – for his Lord and for the cause of education – which will be remembered for many, many years to come. In calling him home, we are sure that God received him with a cry of ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. Come and share My joy’.”