Professor Fabian Monds: 'Towering figure' will also be remembered for his 'warmth and generosity of spirit'
Tributes have been paid to “a towering figure in Northern Ireland’s economic and academic life” after the passing of Professor Fabian Monds.
The Omagh native died peacefully following a long illness on November 13 at the age of 85.
Born on 1 November 1940, he was educated at Christian Brothers Grammar School in Omagh before progressing to Queen’s University Belfast, where he graduated with a First-Class Honours BSc in Electronics in 1962 and completed a PhD in Communications in 1965.
He later served as Provost of Magee College and as Pro Vice-Chancellor for Planning at the University of Ulster.
His academic career also included positions at Purdue University in Indiana and at Queen’s University Belfast.
Furthermore, he was appointed as BBC National Governor for Northern Ireland in 1999, with his term of office extended to 2007.
He was laid to rest St Columba’s Church, Long Tower in Londonderry on Monday.
A death notice reads: “Beloved husband of Eileen, loving father of Aisling and Niamh, devoted grandfather of Aodhgan, Bridie, Aran, Catlin and Ryan, dear son of the late James and Bridget, cherished brother of Noel and the late Sean, Pearl and Junior and a loving uncle to all his nephews and nieces.”
It adds: “Dearly loved and will be sadly missed by the entire family circle.”
In a statement on X, Ulster University said: “The university was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former colleague, Professor Fabian Monds, Director and Dean of the Institute of Mathematics and later Pro-Vice Chancellor of the Derry~Londonderry campus.
“We will remember Prof Monds with great fondness.”
One of Professor Monds’ many roles was becoming the first Chair of Invest Northern Ireland.
Paying tribute, current chair John Healy, said: "Professor Monds was instrumental in shaping the vision and foundations of Invest NI when it was established IN 2002. His leadership and foresight helped create an organisation that continues to drive economic growth, attract investment, and support businesses across Northern Ireland.
"Beyond his role with Invest NI, Professor Monds had a distinguished career as Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Ulster and was widely respected for his contributions to research, entrepreneurship, and regional development. His commitment to public service extended to his work as BBC National Governor for Northern Ireland and Chair of the Northern Ireland Centre for Trauma and Transformation. In recognition of his exceptional service, he was awarded a CBE in 1997.
"Professor Monds will be remembered not only for his intellect and vision but also for his warmth and generosity of spirit. On behalf of the Board and staff of Invest NI, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Eileen, his family, and all who knew and admired him.”
Also on X, North West Regional College shared: “The Governing Body, Management, Staff & Students at NWRC wish to express deep sadness at the passing of former colleague Professor Fabian Monds.
“Professor Monds was a former member of our Governing Body from August 2007 - July 2015.
“He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed.”