Methody Collegians are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our former President and distinguished Collegian, Professor Sir Desmond Rea, who died peacefully at home on 25th May, surrounded by loving family.

Desmond will be remembered by many for his long and outstanding career of public service, but to Collegians he will also be remembered for his unwavering dedication to Methody. He frequently credited the College with laying the foundation for his future success and proudly demonstrated that gratitude through his service as a College Governor, Chair of the Board of Governors, long-standing supporter of former pupils, and as President of Methody Collegians in 2013.

Our last contact with Desmond was regarding his planned attendance at this year’s Annual Dinner, where he will be greatly missed. He also joined us at the Collegians Business Network event in January 2026.

Desmond served with distinction as Chair of several important public bodies, including the Labour Relations Agency and Stranmillis University College. He successfully bridged the worlds of academia and business through his roles as Professor at the University of Ulster and Director of Allied Irish Bank. His decades of public service were especially recognised when he courageously accepted the challenging and dangerous role as the first Chair of the Northern Ireland Policing Board. His important contribution to the peace process was alongside two of his Methody classmates, Rev. Harold Good and Lord Eames. In recognition of his outstanding contribution, he was awarded a knighthood in 2004 for services to policing.

Desmond achieved all of this while, together with his wife Maeve, raising their four beloved daughters — Catherine, Alison, Susie and Jennifer.

Methody Collegians extend our sincere sympathy to Maeve, his daughters, grandchildren and the wider family circle. He will be remembered with great affection, gratitude and respect. #deusnobiscum