School leads tributes to dedicated teacher Julie ahead of funeral

TRIBUTES have been paid to a Co Down teacher who has died suddenly.

Julie Jones, who taught Business Studies at Glenlola Collegiate in Bangor, is said by her family to have died ‘peacefully’ at the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald on Sunday. She was married with two children.

A tribute on the school website states: “The staff and pupils of Glenlola Collegiate are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden death yesterday of Mrs Julie Jones.

“Julie was a very popular and dedicated teacher and will be greatly missed by us all.

“We would like to convey our sincere sympathies to her family and friends and to let them know that they are in our thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time.”

Mrs Jones, née McBrien, was one of three Business Studies staff at Glenlola.

A funeral notice placed by her family said she was the beloved wife of Stefan, dearly loved mother of Callum and Ben, devoted daughter of George and the late Betty McBrien, as well as a much loved sister of Gail, Joanne and Barbara.

The notice added Mrs Jones, who lived in Holywood, would be “lovingly remembered by her family and all the family circle”.

Friends and family were said to be too distraught to speak yesterday. One pupil told the Belfast Telegraph: “It’s just sad and shocking.”

A condolence book has been opened at a Spar shop on the Rathmore Road in Bangor, in memory of Mrs Jones.

In an emotional Facebook message, marked for past and present Glenlola pupils, the Spar worker who organised the tribute wrote: “It has come to light that a much loved staff member has suddenly and very sadly passed away.

“Mrs Jones was an amazing teacher with such a kind and warm heart.

“We would like her family to know that we are all with them during this very sad time, so we have made a book of condolences to be given to her family.

“Please fill the book with your fondest memories, kind words and even photos. The book will be collected on the morning of Thursday, 20th July to be given to the family.”

Mrs Jones’ funeral service will be held tomorrow at Ballycassidy House funeral home in Enniskillen.