South Australia’s catholic community is mourning the loss of beloved teacher Michael Godfrey who died over the weekend.
The Nazareth Catholic College educator has been remembered for his kindness, optimism and passion for teaching.
Nazareth Catholic College paid tribute to the late teacher in their weekly newsletter with College Principal Brian Schumacher describing him as a much-loved member of the Nazareth community.
“As an educator, he touched the lives of countless students, families and colleagues through his compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to supporting those around him,” he wrote.
“Throughout his career in Catholic education, Michael fostered meaningful relationships and inspired others through his positive spirit, humility, and dedication to service.
“He had a remarkable ability to make people feel valued, welcomed, and supported, and his influence will continue to be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.”
On Thursday evening, the college posted a tribute to Mr Godfrey on Facebook which has received an outpouring of messages from past students and colleagues.
Former student Ruby Nixon said he was a teacher who never gave up on his students.
“Mr G was one of those teachers you remember. He was both so passionate about our learning but also understood when we just needed his lesson to be a safe place to chill out during a rough week of being a teenager,” she wrote.
Kenadee Ryan said he was “the best math teacher” she had ever had.
“I will never forget you taking time out of your classes to come help me, the freaking out year 12,” she wrote.
“I will forever remember you adapting your teaching to help me learn geometry, even if it means standing in corners to mimic angles. Rest in peace.”
Colleague Kel Hywood said he was “the most optimistic colleague and a genuinely beautiful soul”.
“We will miss you so much, your words of wisdom, colourful shirts, and little treats to make other people’s days better are only the tiniest fraction of the love, life and laughter you brought to many,” she wrote.
His death comes less than a month after fellow Nazareth Catholic College educator Moira Stevens died in late July.
Mrs Stevens was one of Nazareth’s longest serving teachers, teaching at both Siena College and Nazareth Catholic College over the past 24 years.
“Moira was a dedicated, patient, and highly respected educator who devoted her teaching career to Catholic Education in South Australia,” the college wrote on Facebook.
“Moira’s unwavering commitment to the values of Catholic Education and her profound impact on our community will forever be remembered. Her legacy is one of service, inspiration, and enduring kindness.”