Tributes have been paid to a beloved father, husband and fondly remembered former principal at a Co Derry High School.
David McIntyre, former head teacher at Magherafelt High School passed away this week bringing much sadness to his family, friends and those who knew him.
He has been described as a "caring and approachable" teacher who was known for his sense of humour and always having time for everybody.
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His daughter Paula paid tribute to her "just brilliant" dad saying: "It has been very heartwarming to see all of the kind messages about Dad and each one has meant so much to our family.
"Throughout his teaching career he took a keen interest in the continuing development of the lives of his students.
"He was the type of man who would have time for anybody and a trip to the shop would always take him an hour or two due to the amount of people he would stop to talk to and have a bit of craic.
"He was also just a brilliant dad who supported my brother David and I in everything that we did and we have so many wonderful memories together.
"Everyone always says that they had the best dad, but we really did."
Magherafelt High School, where David was Principal for five years after a period as vice-principal in the school, paid tribute to David saying that it "flourished under his leadership" as he worked tirelessly for it and the local community.
A statement from Magherafelt High School said: "It is with deep sadness that the school community learned of the death of former Principal, Mr David McIntyre. Affectionately known as Davy, he will be fondly remembered by staff and former pupils for his caring, relaxed and approachable nature.
"Prior to his appointment in 1985 as Vice Principal in Magherafelt High School, he was Head of Mathematics in Maghera High School for many years. He was an able and talented teacher and he was also responsible for the development of the curriculum and timetabling until his appointment as Principal in 1989.
"Magherafelt High School flourished under his leadership and he was a great ambassador for the school. He transmitted his love for Golf to many and encouraged teams to take part in competitions. He worked tirelessly for the school community until his retirement in 1994 due to ill health.
"At this sad time, we wish to convey our sincere sympathies to the McIntyre family and assure them of our thoughts and prayers."
Others have taken to social media to pay tribute to David saying that he was a "true gentleman" who would be sorely missed by his former colleagues and pupils.
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