TRIBUTES Teacher leaves a lasting legacy
A DISTINGUISHED and much-loved former headmistress has been remembered for her warmth and “instrumental” work in education.
The family of Falmai Jones have paid tribute to the former teacher at Blaenclydach Secondary Modern School and headmistress of Lower School, Tonypandy Comprehensive, following her death on April 8 at the age of 94.
Falmai was born and brought up in a close-knit mining community in Blaenclydach, Rhondda. Her father, Henry Daniel Griffiths worked at Cambrian Colliery and her mother worked tirelessly at the local chapel.
Falmai passed her eleven-plus and went to Tonypandy Grammar School where she met her lifelong partner Owen Vernon Jones.
After attending Barry Training College, she returned to teach at Blaenclydach Girls’ School where she taught until the school closed.
She went on to become headmistress of Tonypandy Comprehensive Lower School – a position she held until retirement.
Falmai taught biology, PE, art and English – always encouraging children and fostering a love of school with its warm, friendly atmosphere.
One former pupil, Christine Searle, now a retired nursing lecturer at University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, described Falmai as being “instrumental” in developing her confidence.
“I would forfeit the chance of grammar school every time for having had Falmai’s all-important input,” she said.
“Falmai brought culture and art to our attention and made learning fun and exciting.
“For those of us who showed a thirst for knowledge, having failed the eleven-plus, Falmai provided a heaven-sent chance.”
Falmai spent 65 “glorious years” married to Owen. They had one daughter, Cheryl, who described Falmai as “unique and inspirational, always giving the best advice, always looking the epitome of glamour”.
She was a doting grandmother to her three grandsons – Greg, Alex and Owen – and adored her great-grandchildren – Rowan, Sadie, Sebastian, Poppy, Alice, Nola and Casper.
Past pupils, family and friends attended her funeral at St Barnabas Church, Penygraig, which was full to capacity, on April 27.
Cheryl said: “It is impossible to express our family’s loss yet we know her legacy will live on.
“We feel truly blessed to have had such a treasure of a true classy lady for almost 95 years and know her influence will continue to guide us in our roles as parents and human beings forever.”