Celebrating an Offaly native: Ray honoured for a lifetime of dedication

It’s heartening to see a Clara native recognised for his years of tireless service to his community. Raymond Henry, a member of a well-known Clara GAA family, always quietly working to support and uplift those around him since returning to his hometown in 1981 receiving a well-deserved award .

Raymond began his career with the St John of God Brothers in Dublin, and from those early days, he has been a pioneer in the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

He served two terms as Chair of the Irish Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (IACP) and was a founding member of the Midland Regional Branch.

In recognition of his long-standing commitment, Raymond was recently honoured with the prestigious Midland Regional Award by the IACP at their recent Annual Conference in Co. Cork.

A familiar and respected figure in Clara, Raymond has served on several GAA committees and is a founding member of the Clara Heritage Society, as well as an active participant in the Clara Town Centre First Team.

READ NEXT: You can win up to €5,000 at bingo in Offaly village

His love for Clara and its people has always shone through in everything he does. His greatest passions are his family, his community, and people.

When asked what led him to a career in counselling and psychotherapy, Ray said it was his deep love for people and his belief that everyone deserves a helping hand. “None of us are independent, nor do we need to be,” he said. “We are all interdependent, and if we work together, we can carry each other.”

Growing up in Clara, Raymond, known locally as Ray, believes he had the privilege of being raised in one of the most caring communities in Ireland, a factor that greatly shaped his path in life. He shared that while his life has included its share of tragedy and tough times, it was his family, friends, and the Clara community that helped carry him through.

Ray is proud to have been part of the early regeneration of Clara and is thrilled to witness the collaborative efforts of the town and the Council to bring new life to the area.

Those who have worked with Ray over the years, in St John of God’s, Soil Ard Mhuire, The Midland Child Care Services, the GAA, local community groups, and in business, echo the sentiments of his family: Ray is one of the kindest and most caring gentlemen they have ever met.

READ NEXT: Offaly school wins a fantastic outdoor classroom

Well done to Ray on an award truly well deserved, a testament to a life spent helping others, supporting his profession, and dedicating himself to his beloved town of Clara.