Lover of language farewelled at TSS
GLEN Crowther’s two big passions were his students and his family.
To honour this, the ashes of the 83-year-old former head of English at The Southport School will be scattered in the Nerang River between the prestigious school and his Regatta Pde home.
Mr Crowther worked at TSS for more than 30 years, where he was known for igniting a passion for learning in thousands of young students.
Yesterday the beloved teacher was farewelled in a large, emotional service at the school’s St Alban’s Chapel.
Mr Crowther lost a long battle with illness on May 23, aged 83, and was celebrated for his dedication, exuberance and as someone who was often the “life of the party”.
Mr Crowther’s son, Jeffery, recalled many social and school occasions where his father would be the last one to leave, always caught up in the conversation.
“He charmed his way through life, often the centre of attention and the life of the party. He loved it,” Jeffrey said.
Known affectionately for his love of life and “acid tongue”, Mr Crowther began his teaching career at Brisbane Boys’ College in the 1950s, before moving to TSS in 1961.
“For four decades he helped countless young men make the transition into adulthood,” his son explained. “He taught the wonder of the English language, the importance of participating, the value of results not feeble excuses and how to close an evening out at 4am.”
Mr Crowther’s children spoke of sharing their dad with the many TSS borders, who saw him as a guide and father figure, when he served as the head of the McKinley boarding house.
During his time at TSS he lived by his teaching philosophy – to be fair, firm and friendly.
His classroom was remembered for having little decoration, with the exception of a simple poster which read “pursuit of excellence” that adorned the wall.
Dubbed the smiling assassin, who expected nothing but the very best of his students, Mr Crowther also successfully coached the rugby firsts from 1964 to 1975.
Mr Crowther was farewelled with a guard of honour when he retired from TSS in 1995.
He is survived by wife Carol, son, two daughters, four grandchildren and two stepchildren.