Tributes have flooded in following the death of a former teacher remembered as a “lovely man” and “legend” by his ex-pupils.
Eddie McGovern, 61, taught geography at The Grange on Latham Avenue in Runcorn where principal Ian Critchley described him as “much-respected”, adding Mr McGovern will be “greatly missed but he won’t be forgotten”.
The school announced the death of its former colleague on social media on Saturday, reporting he had died on Friday, accompanied by pictures showing his fun and theatrical sides.
READ MORE: Mum lay awake at night for weeks as 'rats' infested her home
A book of condolences had been opened for students to share their memories of Mr McGovern, from Hale Village, to remain open for two weeks and given to his family once completed. Hundreds expressed their sorrow online, with comments welcomed by his grieving family, who reciprocated to well-wishers by remarking on the affection he had for his pupils.
Writing on the school’s Facebook page, one pupil’s mum said: “My son is absolutely gutted. Mr McGovern was his favourite teacher, he said, and he’s really going to miss him.”
A former student said he was a “one of a kind”, adding he was: “1000% the king, he was a legend, he taught me for five years 11 years ago, made school worth it.”
Another said: ”Not only a great teacher but also an amazing friend, some good memories with Eddie.”
One mourner wrote: “Such sad news.
“An amazing teacher and lovely man, our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
One comment said: “I met Mr McGovern only once when we went to visit the school during class time, what you felt when we went into his class was that every child was enjoying their lesson and also had a great respect for him, such a sad loss for his family, friends and his students.”
Another mother remembered the impact his kind attitude had. She said: “Lovely man and a fab teacher.
“Always cheerful. My daughter was in his last form at The Grange. He wrote a card for each of them when he left, what he wrote in my daughter's meant a lot to her. He really understood his kids. Sending love to his family. Goodbye Sir, God Bless.”
Remembering Mr McGovern, principal Mr Critchley told the ECHO: “Eddie was a much-respected teacher for many years at The Grange. You can tell from the many comments and messages of condolence what he meant to our community.
“Eddie leaves a lasting impression on current and past students and his colleagues. I’d like to express my appreciation to colleagues and the community for their support of Eddie’s family during this difficult time. Eddie will be greatly missed but he won't be forgotten.”
Sign up for an ECHO Runcorn and Widnes newsletter
The Grange, formerly a comprehensive and then a through-school, is now an academy under the auspices of Wade Deacon Trust in Widnes. Condolences can be emailed to info@thegrangeacademy.co.uk
