‘Heaven has gained a beautiful angel’
Tributes pour inform other killed ins tab attack
‘Heaven has gained a beautiful angel’.
Those poignant words were written among floral tributes left in the garden of much-loved Sunderland teacher Julie Parkin.
The Castletown community remains in shock after the 39-year-old mother-oftwo was found stabbed to death at her home in Kirkwall Close, at 12.10am on Tuesday.
A 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and last night remained in police custody.
Yesterday, a forensic tent and police cordon remained in place at the front of the semi-detached home where she lived.
Detectives leading the murder investigation say they believe it to be a “domestic incident” between people who know each other.
Bouquets have been left on the front lawn of the property in tribute to Mrs Parking, who was known as Jules.
One message read: “Gone but not forgotten.
“Heaven has gained a beautiful angel. RIP Jules. Forever in our thoughts.”
Mrs Parkin worked at West Boldon Primary School.
The school’s headteacher Joanne Weightman said today: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic news.
“She was a highly-valued and respected member of staff who was popular with both pupils and colleagues.
“We are working with the local authority to offer support to students and staff and will co-operate fully with any police investigation.”
Pupils at the school were given a letter on Tuesday to let parents know of Mrs Parkin’s sudden death.
Written by Mrs Weightman, it read: “The school has experienced the sudden death of one of our teachers, Mrs Parkin.
“We are deeply saddened by her death. All of the staff are available to help your child cope with the tragedy.
“It is possible that your child may have some feelings he or she may like to discuss with you.
“You can help your child by taking some time to listen and encourage them to express their feelings.
“It is important to give them truthful information that is appropriate to their age. If you would like advice or assistance, please speak to a member of school staff.
“The school routine will continue as normal.
“We appreciate all of your support.”
Tributes to Mrs Parkin continue to pour in on social media after her shock death.
Les ley Anne Young wrote: “Your beautiful smile and infectious laugh will be missed by us all. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of your family and friends xxxxx”
Kim Clark said: “So so sad, I knew Julie when she was young, such a shocking thing, my thoughts are with Julie’s family.”
Le anne Fowler posted :“Life is so unfair. Taken far too soon. I am honoured to have known such a beautiful person inside and out. Thinking of all your beautiful family at this sad time xxx”
Lesley Richardson wrote: “Very sad. Children left without a mother due to mindless violence. Very sad. RIP and condolences to the family xx”
Jay Lodge said: “Rest in peace Julie. So sad. Thinking of her two children at this terrible time.”
Catheryn Doyle Burns posted: “RIP Julie, such a lovely girl. Thinking of her family at such a difficult time x”
Gemma Gardner wrote: “RIP julie. A lovely lady x I’m so shocked by this. Thinking of ur children and family xx
Linda Walton said: “RIP Julie taken too soon. God bless thoughts with your family xx”
Charlie Brown posted: “RIP Julie such a lovely lass my thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends xxx”
Kurt Vicky Lucas said: “RIP Julie thinking of your poor children, may you live on through them, sleep tight xx”
Jenny Usher wrote: “Heartbreaking such a beautiful girl inside and out.”
And Sarah Briton said: “One of the most beautiful people I ever met. Inside and out this woman was lovely. RIP Julie”
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by this tragic news” JOANNE WEIGHTMAN