Mary gave me my first permanent teaching job. I always found her to be funny, interested and straightforward, which was exactly what I needed at such an early stage in my career. Her dedication to the school was impressive and even though she could be very tough, we also knew that she was kind and supportive of us and the pupils. I am very sad to hear of her death and I hope that her family will find comfort from reading the words of all these people who appreciated her and everything she did for us.